A fencing coach has been forced to host training sessions from his Hertfordshire living room after lockdown almost foiled his club’s efforts to practise together.

Fighting Fit Fencing head coach Alex Beardmore switched over to the online video conferencing platform Zoom in March last year when Covid-19 restrictions were first introduced.

The 25-year-old, from Pirton, near Hitchin, now keeps members of his north London fencing club up to speed with up to six online sessions per week from the comfort of his living room.

Mr Beardmore told the PA news agency: “I think the format has worked well so far, but I am ready and raring to go as soon as the Government says I can open up my fencing club again.

“But this is the best we can do and I try to make it the best it can be.”

Members of the Barnet-based club, whose ages range from six to 80, have also had to get creative with their home training.

Mr Beardmore added: “I give them exercises that can be done on their own in any size or space, because they can’t actually spar with anyone.

“Some of our members are doing it in their living room, some are doing it in their hallways, others are doing it in their bedrooms.”