Swords have been used as a means of fighting for centuries, but it was back in the 18th century when fencing as a sport first began.

Fencing today involves the use of several pieces of specialist equipment and all fencers need to be kitted out with a mask of at least 3mm thick, a glove (worn on the sword arm), jacket, long tight shorts or breeches and a foil, sabre or épée (the fencing weapons). Each fencing match is called a bout and includes three, three-minute rounds; points are scored when the fencer touches their opponent with the tip of their sword.

The ExCel centre in London is due to host the fencing events for the 2012 Olympics and has four arenas already in existence, ready and waiting to stage the sporting spectacular. One fencer waiting to make an appearance is Richard Kruse, who is the top foilist in Britain.