Anti-stab workshops for children

More than 10 teenagers have been stabbed to death in London this year

Children as young as 10 are taking lessons in how to avoid being stabbed.

Specially adapted self-defence classes are being run by a martial arts school at All Souls Clubhouse in Camden, north London, for 10 to 16-year-olds.

The workshops will teach youngsters how to deal with confrontations and advise them to run away from potential attackers or hand over their property.

A total of 16 teenagers have died as a result of violent crime in London since the beginning of the year.

Dalia Terret, from KB Fitness, who is running the courses, said: "We thought it would be helpful for the community if we could offer something positive for the children.

"Quite a lot of kids I've spoken to about the current crime situation are worried and scared and not quite sure what to do if they are attacked with a knife or another weapon."

Ms Tarret said the classes were about being confident and how to avoid being a victim of crime.

She said the children would be taught that "running away is not a bad thing and they don't have to fight".

Officers from the Metropolitan Police were due to attend the first lesson on Saturday to watch and give advice.