JAMES Austin, who represented Team GB at the London 2012 Olympic Games, ran a martial arts event in Brierley Hill to encourage people with mental health problems to get more active through sport.

The event was the latest in a series of free taster sessions offered by Dudley Mind as part of the Get Set to Go scheme.

The martial arts event at Inspire Gym on October 6 gave people the opportunity to try out kickboxing, karate, judo and yoga in a safe, friendly and relaxed environment.

Paul Campbell, owner of the Canal Street gym, said the 15 people that attended visibly grew in confidence throughout the session.

He added: "James was superb and afterwards people came up to me to say how much they enjoyed it."

James added: “Martial arts are a great way for people to get active and can help give a huge boost to your confidence.

"Exercising with others can have even greater impact as it provides an opportunity to strengthen social networks, talk through problems with others or simply laugh and enjoy a break from family and work."

Further details about taster events can be found at www.dudleymind.org.uk/get-set-to-go.