NATIONAL kickboxing coach Paul Gilmore has been hailed a hero after helping steer scores of youngsters away from a life of crime.

The 33-year-old sportsman, who runs the Combat Sports Centre in Acocks Green, works with school pupils in danger of being excluded.

School-based police officer Eddie Hemming refers pupils to Paul from eight neighbouring schools including Archbishop Ilsley Catholic Technology College and Ninestiles School.

He said: “We’ve never had a problem with a pupil once they’ve gone to Paul.

“He has a 100 per cent success rate.

“It’s the kickboxing element.

“Because he’s the European champion and the England coach, he’s got that kudos. Either that or they’re just scared of him – he’s a big lad!

“He’s very much a hero. If we had more people like Paul, we’d be very happy. He’s definitely helped cut crime in the area.”

Among those Paul has helped is 16-year-old Callum Hawthorne.

“Growing up, I was never the best behaved,” said Callum, who now attends St Peters Sixth Form College, in Solihull.

“I was never actually in trouble with the police but I was heading that way.