A self defence coach is hoping to expand his business to help those with disabilities learn the art and keep safe.

Eastern Daily Press: Gary Brown giving self defence lessons to disabled City College students as part of the CCN Active Parasports Festival at the Sportspark.Picture: ANTONY KELLYGary Brown giving self defence lessons to disabled City College students as part of the CCN Active Parasports Festival at the Sportspark.Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2015)

Gary Brown, of Attleborough Road in Great Ellingham, started martial arts training in 1989, at the tender age of six.

Since then, the 32-year-old has not looked back, racking up years of experience and launching his own classes.

'I just love it,' he said. 'I eat it, breathe it. It's my absolute passion. I've just loved it right from the word go.'

Last year, he gave up his day job to go full-time - and Street Smart Self Defence was born.

Now, Mr Brown spends his days imparting his wisdom at schools, holding seminars and classes for adults and juniors and running six-week training courses.

Earlier this month he took part in City College Norwich's Active Parasports Festival, held at the University of East Anglia Sportspark, where he taught people with disabilities his trademark self-defence, a blend of karate, Kung Fu, boxing, kick-boxing, weapons defence and general street awareness.

It was an event which has inspired him to do more to make sure the most vulnerable people in our region are kept safe.

He said: 'It was a really big event and the first one at UEA. It was really good, I enjoyed running it and hopefully those there did too.

'It has made me think about setting up a proper class for disabled people, which could cater for all different types of disabilities.'

Although Mr Brown works with people of all ages, he said his main focus is working with young people.

'My classes are for everyone, but I do like working with the younger generation and blending the old, traditional style and the modern take I have put on it.'

For more information or if you would like to get involved, contact Mr Brown on 07765402145 or emailing gary@streetsmartselfdefence.com

Do you have a Great Ellingham story we should be writing about? Email lauren.cope@archant.co.uk