PUPILS were given the chance to step into police officers shoes when they took part in counter -terrorism workshops.

In workshops run by Sergeant Ken Kirwan from Lancashire Constabulary's Special Branch Pendle Vale College students were asked to how they would react if a bomb went off if they were police officers The workshops, part of a groundbreaking scheme to tackle terrorism being rolled out across East Lancashire schools, colleges and community groups, give participants the chance to make critical decisions in a fictitious terrorist scenario.

They have been led by Imran Iqbal, student support manager, and Samina Kauser, youth in the community manager.

Imran said the scheme had been very successful in positively influencing pupils.

He said: "This is just about being pro-active and talking about issues at a level where students can engage.

"We want to challenge views and give them a safe outlet for their views."