A new mixed martial arts gym designed to keep youngsters active and off the streets has opened in St Ives.

Rough Diamonds Mixed Martial Arts, in Free Church Passage, was visited by the mayor of the town, Councillor Debbie Townsend, for the ribbon cutting on April 22, before she was shown around its facilities.

“I’m really interested in getting kids off the streets and I’m aware there isn’t much for them to do so I think they could really benefit from training,” Steve Riformato, the gym owner, said.

“It teaches discipline, channels aggression, and also helps them work as a team and mix with others.”

The gym specialises in Brazilian jiu jitsu, wrestling, and Thai boxing and offers free classes to children under 16 on Mondays and Wednesdays, as well as free teenager sessions on Fridays.

“I know a lot of families may not be able to afford regular training costs and I would like to help children from disadvantaged families have something positive to focus on,” said Mr Riformato.

Adult membership is also available, and more information can be found at roughdiamondsmma.com.