HE'S the 78-year-old who has memorised over 10,000 self-defence moves.

When Terence Taylor’s son introduced him to the South Korean martial art of Choi Kwang Do he had no idea it would transform his life.

The widower had diabetes, a heart bypass and needed to get fit to look after his wife.

In just three years - and after not doing sport since his 30s - he has learnt enough moves to defend himself against an onslaught of potential attackers, while at the same time making new friends and cutting down his medication.

The retired electronics engineer from Thornhill, Southampton, will be taking his black belt test on September 11.

Mr Taylor said: “My son is an assistant instructor and he introduced me to it. My wife was disabled and my intention was to get fit so it was easier to help her.

“She had five types of cancer and a heart problem, and died on Christmas Day.

“I started training twice a week, and now I’m here four times a week in the run up to the test.”

Although he was a keen athlete as a young man, playing hockey, basketball and football for various teams including Central Athletic in the 1950s, Mr Taylor had a heart bypass in 2007 and had suffered from diabetes for 23 years.

But having taken up Choi Kwang Do he says his health has improved dramatically.

It is a martial art that places an emphasis on personal development and health and well-being.

Developed by Grandmaster Choi Kwang 30 years ago using scientific techniques such as biomechanics, kinesiology and neuropsychology, it is aimed at all individuals who want to learn real life practical self-defence skills and enhance their mental, physical and emotional and social development.

Mr Taylor said: “It gives you confidence. When you go out you’re always dubious and looking over your shoulder, or worried about crossing the road, but I don’t feel half as old as I am. I don’t even think about my age now.

“When I started I was on a fair number of tablets, but I’m only on four or five a day now. I sleep well and I have no trouble getting up in the morning.”

Since the death of his wife, he said the training has helped deal with his grief. He said: “The camaraderie here is brilliant. Everyone is really lovely and friendly.”

Trainer Derek Bicknell set up as an instructor 12 years ago and runs Hampshire CKD with his wife and two sons. Now he and other instructors have over 450 students across the county. He said: “It’s very much a family activity and nearly half of our instructors are female.

“We don’t do ground work or grappling, it’s a ‘striking art’ with basic punches and kicks. And we don’t do sparring - it’s about individual development.

“Part of it is about keeping balance and control, which is perfect for older people. Punching and kicking gives stronger bones which helps fight off osteoporosis. People can train well into their 90s. It’s a step beyond Tai Chi.”