YOUNG firebugs are being shown the error of their ways -- by learning how to be firefighters.

The children from Blackburn and Darwen, aged between 12 and 17, will learn how to search burning buildings, cut people free from cars and use equipment such as breathing apparatus and ladders.

Firefighters and the Blackburn with Darwen Community Safety Partnership, which have jointly organised the pioneering scheme, hope it will deter children from starting nuisance fires.

The week-long course is similar to that which recruits undertake before becoming firefighters.

Station Officer Tim Wright, of Blackburn fire station, said: "We believe that these skills and the excitement of working in such an environment are a huge attraction for young people who often cite boredom as the reason they get into trouble.

"By offering an opportunity to experience something of that excitement we are in a position to get a positive message across to these youngsters about how they should behave in society."

Coun Andy Kay, chairman of the community safety partnership, added: "A key part of crime prevention is to tackle the root causes of crime.

"It is our aim by running courses like this that we can teach young people new skills and offer them life changing experiences as an alternative to a path which will only lead them to getting into trouble. We are delighted to be working in partnership with the fire and rescue service to help reduce offending and anti-social behaviour by some young people."

The first students completed the training last week -- and it was hailed a success.

Mr Wright added: "The course provides a basic working experience programme.

"It works with young people who are known to be offending, and those at risk of offending.

"All the participants volunteer to go on the course, which seeks to foster the benefits of working within a disciplined uniformed team.

"The project is committed to improving the life chances of every young person it works with by introducing them to life skills and responsibilities.

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