The University of Ulster is hosting an open day for fencing at its Jordanstown campus this weekend.

The venture, in conjunction with Northern Ireland Fencing, is encouraging anyone wanting to try the sport to come along the free event on Saturday between 10am and 4pm.

Dr Nigel Dobson, Co-Director of the University of Ulster Sports Academy said: "The day is all about giving people the opportunity to come and try fencing. The University is committed to developing sport for the community as well as using our world-class facilities to improve top athletes.

"Bringing the fencing open day to the campus is giving everyone the chance to try out an Olympic sport. It is something that you don?t normally get the chance to do and, you never know, we could end up discovering a world talent right on our doorstep."

Top fencing coaches will be on hand to provide training for absolute beginners.

The programme follows on from a successful 2009 for fencing at the University of Ulster. Last year, the University hosted over 1,000 top fencers from 85 countries for the Junior and Cadet World Fencing Championships.

As well as this, last summer Ulster graduate and fencing star Andrew Fenwick represented Ireland on the world stage as he competed in the Epee section at the 25th World University Games in Belgrade.

The University has also shown its commitment to supporting its sports stars with Irish international fencer Raisa Greer among the Ulster Sports Scholars for 2009/10.

More recent developments have seen the formation of the Ulster Elks Junior Fencing Club.

Further information and registration for the 'Try It' fencing day at the University of Ulster's Jordanstown campus can be found at www.nifencing.com