YOUNG people boxed clever — when they were put through their paces in Thai boxing lessons.

Martial arts expert Sandy Holt delivered a series of motivational training sessions with young people at Little Lever School illustrating how the skills — mental and physical discipline — needed for the sport which has its origins in ancient combat.

Mr Holt said: "I worked with two groups over four weeks,

"Through Thai boxing it was about developing focus and discipline which they can use in their education.

"Thai boxing develops you mentally and physically."

As part of the sessions, the pupils were given inspirational talks, including by those who had turned their lives around using the skills needs in Thai boxing.

Mr Holt said: "Delivering more sessions like this in schools is something I would like to do more of."

Year 10 leader Mike Beaumont said the sessions did have an impact on the young people.

He said: "The four week sessions were a success in raising self confidence, esteem.

"The pupil have learned how to work as a team and respect.

"Thai boxing develops lifeskills because I think it is quite spiritual and more than just training hard like in boxing.

"At the beginning of every session there is the respect factor and at the end there is a salute."

See The Bolton News website for more pictures.