SIX Breightmet youngsters, who have been given a glimpse of life on the beat, have been honoured for their hard work.

The group were given a behind-the-scenes look at the workings of the town's emergency services after taking part in the 999 Challenge 2000 scheme.

Across the county, 12 teams of youngsters aged between 10 and 18 have pushed themselves to the limit to complete five phases of the challenge.

The aim has been to build up their confidence and teach essential life-saving skills to benefit themselves and the community.

PC Janet Parker, Bolton police's youth development officer, encouraged the Breightmet youngsters to take part after addressing them during a visit to a family centre on Ashness Grove.

She said: "They have done really well. When I first met them they were all very quiet but they have all come out of their shells more." As part of the challenge, the youngsters, accompanied by PC Parker, completed a survey in the Breightmet area to find out how many people had smoke detectors in their homes.

The information has since been passed on to the fire brigade, which was also actively involved in the Challenge 2000, as well as Greater Manchester Ambulance Service. The six were among 136 children whose achievements were recognised at an awards ceremony at Pembroke Hall, Walkden. They were presented with certificates and given the chance to relive the best moments of the challenge, courtesy of video clips shown on a big screen.