A DEESIDE based martial arts instructor is hosting lessons for people with learning difficulties.

Darren Richardson, who has taught taekwondo for over 30 years, is holding the classes as Deeside Leisure Centre in Queensferry.

The classes - named 'inclusive taekwondo' - are open to everyone; regardless of age, gender or ability.

The first class took place on Saturday, and Darren is hoping it will grow in the coming weeks.

He said: "We had seven at the class on Saturday, so I'm hoping to spread the word far and wide and get as many people involved as possible.

"It's not for adults, we want to see as many kids down as possible."

The classes are specifically aimed at people who otherwise would not have the opportunity to take part - such as people with autism or other learning difficulties.

And Darren says the idea for the scheme came after visiting schools across the area.

He said: "Having done classes in schools across north east Wales, I noticed that children with learning difficulties were often on the sidelines watching - thinking they couldn't take part.

"There was one day at a school when a boy was again sat watching so I asked him to join in. He did and absolutely loved every minute of it.

"This is when it came to me that classes aimed at people who otherwise wouldn't get a chance to take part would be brilliant.

"I could talk about the amount of medal winners we had at different events at the weekend but for me this is the most important issue right now."

Darren says the first class was a resounding success.

He added: "They and I had a great time - they were smiling, laughing and jumping up and down, and it was the most fun I've had teaching a class for a long time."

But Darren says the classes are not just for people to have a go, he wants to train people to reach a level where they are competing and getting belts.

He said: "A man in a wheelchair I have been teaching for four years is going for his black belt, so the unexpected can be done if people are willing to learn.

"In the long-run we'll be looking to have competitions between members of the class and look towards getting them belts."

The sessions run from 11.45am on Saturdays at Deeside Leisure Centre.

For more information, please contact Darren Richardson on 07735337433.