POP-UP Nerf company ActionBlast is opening its first permanent gaming arena at Rubery's Father's Barn next month.

The netted game zone, which is set to open on May 5, features specialist lighting, a bespoke soundtrack, atmospheric effects and a viewing area and cafe or parents.

ActionBlast, headed by former Haybridge School student Scott Simpson, has previously held pop-up arenas at Victorius Festival, Kinetic Global Trance Gathering and the University of Birmingham.

Scott, 24, said: "Everyone loves Nerf. For those who don't know, it's somewhere between laser quest and paint balling, but it's really inclusive and the game can be adapted to suit different ages.

Bromsgrove Advertiser:

"We're starting to get the word out to customers and have been sending emails out to the local community.

"That's one of the reasons we went ahead with the opening - because of the great feedback we've had so far.

"There's nothing like it in the area and not much for kids to do in Rubery, apart from the trampoline park, but this is something completely different."

The game is aimed at ages five and above. All ActionBlast staff are first aid trained, with experience working with children.

Scott added: "Our market research showed that accidents do happen at other Nerf arenas. So we put measures in place to prevent them from happening.

"We have inflatable barriers to stop children from running into them and hurting themselves, and the arena is fully netted, so that parents can watch their children without worrying about getting hit. They can sit in the cafe and enjoy a piece of cake while they watch."

Father's Barn owner Ian Robinson, who is also chairman of Rubery Village Association, said the arena would be an asset to the shopping arcade, and Rubery as a whole.

He said: "We are delighted to welcome Scott and ActionBlast to Father's Barn.

"He's dedicated to the community and I think the arena is going to have a really positive impact on the area."

Visit actionblastevents.com for more information, or to book.