THE dangers of knife crime were highlighted in Bournemouth on Sunday as door staff were taught how to deal with a potential attack.

Door staff from First Security, who are based at pubs and clubs in Bournemouth including Walkabout, The Mary Shelley and V, were shown by instructors from Canford Cliffs-based Gladiator Academy how to defend themselves and others against violence.

The staff were put through their paces by Phil Norman, formerly of Gladiators fame, and fellow instructor Woody White.

Marc Smith, operations director at First Security, said: “There is a perception that there is more knife crime than there used to be in Bournemouth.

“Obviously it is not a regular problem but we need to be prepared for an incident, which is why we are taking preventative action.

“Door staff can’t carry weapons so they need to know how to take care of a situation so they and members of the public aren’t harmed.”

Acting Inspector Steve Lyne from Dorset Police said: “Incidents involving weapons are very, very low in Dorset in general. I think that the purpose of this training is more about the people and the door staff just remaining aware for their own safety. It is important that Dorset Police work closely with the security industry mainly to ensure a safe night time economy for everyone.”