Teenagers have the chance to become young firefighters under a new scheme designed to challenge them and achieve their very best - while having fun at the same time.

The Fire Cadets scheme is now open in Bolton and Ramsbottom and is being run by a former firefighter.

The scheme provides a chance for young people to build their self-confidence and resilience whilst developing their leadership and teamwork ability.

It’s also lots of fun and a great way to meet new friends while gaining a qualification accredited by the National Fire Cadets Committee.

Nick Cooper is running the two-year scheme.

The Bolton News: Fire cadets

He said: “The idea is to reach young people and to teach them confidence and make good role models in the community.

“We have young people from all different backgrounds, and they will also be working in the community to fundraise and taking part in a national camp day.

“We have had some really good responses with parents supporting us as well.”

The cadets will look at water safety as well as take part in challenges.

Young people  are helped to develop a ‘can do’ attitude and  to always try their very best.

Cadets have a chance to represent their country by taking part in international competitions

There will be a drop-in session on October 19 at Bolton Fire Station from 4.30pm for parents to attend to learn more about the scheme and by October 30, all four of the cadet groups will be up and running.

The Bolton News: Fire cadets

Nick was a firefighter himself from 1984 and said he could see the benefits the cadets had on young people’s lives before retiring in 2014.

He said: “I realised that they could do most things if they worked hard and I wanted to bring this back.

“Some of them in the past would stay on to volunteer and some have even become firefighters today in Bolton.

“The cadets are always looking smart and they will always represent the cadet club in the area.”

The scheme is open to ages 13-16.