Epee centre!

EN GARDE: Stuart Marshall.

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AMBITIOUS plans will transform part of an old mill into the biggest fencing centre in the UK.

The proposals have been submitted to planners by Marshall Fencing - led by 2010 Commonwealth Games gold medalist Stuart Marshall.

If approved, the 17,000 sq ft site in Osborne Mill will have 20 fencing pistes and create 10 jobs. Stuart, who will run the Busk Road centre with partners Dave Taylor and Michael Swiffin, is aiming to put fencing on the map in Oldham and create the best centre in the country.

He said: “We’re hoping to make fencing one of the most popular sports in Oldham. Fencing has an image of just being for public schools, but we want everyone to enjoy taking part.

“We are already one of the top five clubs in the country but we’re aiming to be the best.”

The centre will offer regular classes for ages six and up costing from £20, all equipment provided. Fencers will also be able to take all six of the British Fencing Association’s gradings.

Stuart was nominated for coach of the year in the Oldham Sports Awards last year and Marshall Fencing was nominated in the team of the year category at this year’s ceremony.

He has many years of international fencing experience at cadet, junior and senior European and world championship levels.

Stuart said: “Some of our current students have represented Britain from under 15 level all the way up and we’re keen to build on this success and hopefully train a world champion.”