A YOUNG boy who was beaten and left for dead has got his confidence back, thanks to a kind-hearted Redditch group.

After suffering devastating injuries and being forced to leave his home and all his friends Owen Jones retreated from the world.

The 15-year-old was a victim of hate crime and after being attacked by a gang he was forced to leave his home in Nuneaton and relocate to Bromsgrove.

Following the brutal attack he was was left with low self esteem and very little confidence.

Around four months ago Owen's mother contacted Redditch Selfdefence, which focuses on crime prevention and self defence, which agreed to help the traumatised teen.

The group even raised money to pay for his transport from Bromsgrove to Redditch so he could attend the classes.

Earlier this month Owen was awarded his first grading in self defence.

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Pete martin, from Redditch Selfdefence, said: "Once we got started Owen soon began to flourish, and his confidence improved.

"Getting his first grading was a great achievement for Owen, he put in 100 per cent."

Mr Martin added: "The association was formed to help victims of violent crime, such as Owen, and this has been a massive success story."

The association, which relies on donations and sponsors, is currently working with West Mercia Police and Worcestershire County Council to offer free training for people at the Redditch Boxing Academy in Matchborough.

It has also started working to try to reduce knife crime, alongside police inspector Mark Chappell.

For more on Redditch Selfdefence, go to redditchselfdefence.co.uk.