Cadets get all fired up as they show skills and drills at Bognor Regis Fire Station graduation ceremony

They demonstrated a range of skills '“ including three drills '“ at a passing out ceremony which ended a 40-week course. They were watched by their proud parents and Peter Evans, the West Sussex County Council cabinet member for public protection.

The council's fire and rescue service runs the fire cadet scheme for young people aged between 13 and 16 of both sexes, mixed ability and backgrounds.

Cllr Evans said: "It is part of the county council's community safety strategy and aims to develop young people's awareness of the dangers faced in everyday life. At the same time, it enables them to give something back to the community they live in."

Each cadet unit has a fire engine and equipment. The cadets take part in a training programme that's similar to the one undertaken by firefighters.

They also become involved in a wide variety of community service initiatives and community fire safety campaigns to increase fire safety awareness in West Sussex.

County fire officer Max Hood said: "The fire cadet scheme gives young men and women the opportunity to learn a wide range of new skills within the framework of a uniformed disciplined youth organisation.

"This not only provides them with an insight into the work of the fire and rescue service but also enables them to develop leadership qualities and team building skills."

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