As woman who has done a lot of kickboxing and boxing training in the past, albeit a lot less fit now than I used to do, I will hand in my bag. I do worry about my reaction though as instincts may kick in. I also wonder what would happen if I saw someone being hurt (instincts may kick in even more). I don't carry anything I would want to lose my life for, it's all replaceable. However I also carry this:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Trident-Triple-A...168&sr=8-1

[b]Palm Heel Strike

This move WILL disable an attacker for long enough to either flee or follow up with fists, feet, knees, disapproving language. Best to hit under the chin as fast and as hard as you can. They WILL go down.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ni785Lr4y2g

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAgTh6y0OMg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iu_EVPGD66M

Be smart people. I was waiting for my husband at the station late last night and a young man walked by and asked me for the time. I didn't get out my mobile phone to check it but said I didn't have the time. He seemed surprised and said really? I said, yes, I don't have a watch and then he walked on by.

It might have been nothing after all but don't flash your goods around just in case.

I agree not displaying items like watches , phones , i players etc helps.

Also I say again why oh why do youngsters stroll along with walkmans etc full on . They should have their facilities about them looking out and listening out for danger