A MARTIAL arts school is offering free defence lessons to children after a young girl was attacked last week.

Jason O’Grady, chief instructor at Swindon Martial Arts Centre , will offer a month’s free training to any child in Swindon in a bid to help improve their self defence.

The father of twins read the story in the Adver last week of how a man in a van attempted to grab a nine-year-old girl who was out with friends in East Wichel.

The police put out an appeal following the incident on September 7 after a man, believed to be in his late 20s, tried to grab the girl, who was standing on the corner of Brentfore Street and Yelland Walk waiting for her friends.

Jason, 38, has run the centre, in County Road, for nearly a year and hopes that by giving children the opportunity to learn a few basic martial arts skills in a fun environment, it will help to give parents some peace of mind.

“I have got nine-year-old twins myself and when I read the story I thought about doing something,” he said. “What we are doing is the first month at the centre for free, which gives the children four weeks to give martial arts a go, and even if it is not for them at least they will have some basic skills. It is good to give parents that peace of mind.

“We have only been going just under a year but already we have 30 children with us.

“Our classes are based around games and through them they learn skills such as respect and discipline.”

To find out more about the classes call Jason on 01793 829675 or visit the website at www.swindonmartialarts.com.

Wiltshire police are still appealing for any witnesses over the East Wichel incident.

Community beat manager Rory Draper said: “Enquires into this incident are ongoing.

“We have increased patrols in the area and are still keen to hear from anyone with information or anyone who uses or owns a red Transit-style van who may have been in the area at the time.”

Anyone with information should call PC Sean Magee at Gablecross Police Station on 101 or on Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

For personal safety advice, visit www.wiltshire.police.uk or contact your Neighbourhood Policing Team.