THE British Free Fighting Academy has launched a regional programme to increase its profile and number of instructors.

The self-defence academy, based in Aston Fields, plans to send already licensed instructors into areas such as Redditch, Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Worcester, Evesham, Gloucester and Cheltenham to teach the martial art.

BFFA founder and chief instructor Andy Hopwoos said: "I am extremely proud to be launching this instructor programme. All the appointed instructors will keep the trusted methods of teaching serious self defence in an atmosphere that encourages a hard work ethic, while still allowing a smile or two."