THE lifesaving skills of Bolton youngsters were put to the test when they faced a mock crash scene.

To make it as realistic as possible, actors wore gory make-up to play the part of the casualties.

The 999 Challenge Day on Saturday was organised by Greater Manchester Police, Fire and Ambulance services.

Young people had to complete a series of tasks designed to test their knowledge of the three emergency services and how they operate.

The toughest part of the day was the mock crash which was carefully constructed by the experts at the Fire Training Centre, Thompson Street, Manchester. They monitored how the young people aged between 10 and 18 worked as a team when coping with the major incident.

PC Derek Boothroyd of GMP's community affairs section said: "The young people found the Challenge Day a worthwhile and rewarding experience.

"In particular, the mock crash pushed their communication and team-building skills to the limit."