A MAN from Kidderminster is opening up a new facility in Redditch, with the aim of going against traditional beliefs by introducing the idea of the family unit into martial arts.

Steve Winsper already runs two centres, one in Kidderminster and the other in Halesowen, and hopes the new one at the business centre on Marsden Road, Smallwood, will prove equally as popular.

Mr Winsper first became interested in karate in 1968 while he was in the armed forces. When he came out he began to fully develop his interest in the sport.

And it is very much a family affair for Mr Winsper, as his sons Matthew, 21, and James, 18, are world class kickboxing and karate champions.

He said: "Martial arts has always been very much a family activity for us, we have always done it together and this is how we want to run the centre.

"Many see it as quite an individual thing to become involved in, but it certainly doesn't have to be.

"Families who have joined our other classes have benefited a great deal from it. They spend an enjoyable time with each other; it teaches them something which is useful as a form of defence and focuses the mind."

People who join the centre will not be graded in the same way as they would with other trainers, but work towards "graduating" past certain levels, which Mr Winsper believes puts less pressure on youngsters.

And this master of martial arts is keen to dispel misconceptions about why people learn these disciplined skills.

He said: "We do not get people in and teach them how to beat others up. Someone with a black belt should be a pillar of society.

"Martial arts can build up confidence in youngsters and it teaches them a great deal about discipline and respect, which will make them better people in all aspects of their lives.

"We are very keen to liaise with our pupils' school teachers about their progress. If they are in trouble at school then they can't "graduate" because they are not exercising the discipline they have been taught here."

Classes at the new centre will range from sessions for small children up to people who are already adept at martial arts with a price reduction for family bookings.

The centre opened at the beginning of August. For more details, call 01562 630654.