A FACTORY worker from Cricklade took a break from the assembly line to follow the path of the ninja.

Paul Stubbs, 34, is one of fewer than 100 people in the country to rise to the level of fifth Dan black belt in Ninjitsu.

And to do so he had to pass an incredible test in Japan.

He visited the sport's grand master Dr Masaaki Hatsumi and had to pass the ultimate trial, known as the kill test. Paul said: "I had to kneel down in front of the grand master with him stood behind me.

"He was going to cut down at me with a sword and I had to sense that coming and move out of the way it's like using your sixth sense.

"If you don't get out of the way you get a whack on the head and don't move up to the fifth Dan. It is only a training sword but it would still hurt."

He passed the test and now hopes one day to start a new academy to pass on his martial arts skills to children.

Paul currently works as a production operative at Doflex Vitapol in Hawksworth Industrial Estate, Swindon.

He learnt Ninjitsu first at a club in Cirencester and more recently with a tenth Dan expert in Guildford.

Although Ninjitsu involves the use of swords and other weapons, Paul stressed that the main emphasis is self defence. And he said that modern-day ninjas are a long way from the cloaked assassins of movie folklore.

He said: "They have been badly portrayedby Hollywood. They were more like special forces sent to do difficult missions like information-gathering and spying.

"The main thing about it is the avoidance of confrontation. When you get to a certain level you can avoid the need for conflict.

"I have worked out a programme for children which is designed to give them confidence and self control.

"I won't be teaching them dangerous Ninjitsu moves with weapons.

"It will teach them how to avoid danger and how to deal with a bully."

Mr Stubbs said he is willing to provide tuition for anyone aged from six to 90. He has been involved in Ninjitsu for six years and in other martial arts since he was 17. Anyone interested in gaining instruction in Ninjitsu can contact him on 07761 969425.