AN INTERNATIONAL expert of an ancient Chinese martial art famously practised by Lou Reed is coming to Glasgow.

Master Liming Yue is preparing to stage tai chi workshops and demonstrations in Glasgow's Caledonian University this weekend.

He was invited to the city by one of his senior students, Michaela Sinclair.

The 40-year-old has trained under Mr Yue for eight years and holds a tai chi class every Tuesday in the grounds of the university.

She said she was honoured that Mr Yue agreed to take part in the training as well as an open event, which is expected to attract hundreds of people.

Mr Yue specialises in the oldest form of the Chinese system of slow meditative physical exercise, Chen-style tai chi.

The martial art is practiced by millions of people worldwide, including the late singer/songwriter Lou Reed.

His widow Laurie Anderson said the musician died at home last month while practising the ancient arts form.

Ms Sinclair, from Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire, who has been to China three times to train with Mr Yue, said she hoped city residents would take advantage of the chance to work with him.

She said: "This is the first time we've had an opportunity like this in Glasgow.

"Master Liming Yue has trained since he was a wee boy for over 40 years, and has been a coach for over 30 years.

"He went to the original village and studied under the Chen masters.

"His master is the Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei - you can't get higher than that.

"It's giving Scottish students, who wouldn't otherwise have the opportunity, a chance to train with a high level master."

The open event of tai chi and qigong, will take place on Saturday from 11am-12noon.

Entry costs £10 or £7 with a student card.

Training on Chen tai chi will take place Saturday and Sunday from 12-4pm and costs £40 each day.

For more information to book a place email m.sinclair@gcu.ac.uk or call 07884 364437.

rachel.loxton@ eveningtimes.co.uk