The Academy of Martial Arts (TAMA) is hosting a seminar tonight to teach people how to defend themselves against a knife attack.

The seminar entitled 'Surviving Knife Attacks' at the TAMA studio on King Street at 6.30 p.m. will help attendees develop greater confidence and reduce fear and apprehension if a violent situation arises.

Though people in specialised fields such as security have shown interest in the class, two female civilians have also registered.

According to TAMA instructor Bobby Smith, the class will not focus on how to take knives away from an attacker but will show people what to do, and more importantly what not to do when approached with a bladed weapon. The class is important says Mr. Smith, because "violence is on the rise and knives are a lot more prevalent and easier to carry than guns."

He also believes the class will teach people how to be more observant. "They will be able to pre-empt the situation by knowing what to look for and being able to recognise dangerous situations before they happen to them," he added.

For more information on the seminar, which costs $125, contact Mr. Smith at 292-5715 but only limited spaces are available.