A NEW batch of raw recruits has joined Farnworth firefighters as part of a pioneering bridge-building exercise.

Dozens of youngsters, aged 11 and 12, formed the second wave of fire cadets to enrol at the station on Saturday as officers held a special open day.

The scheme aims to keep local youngsters out of trouble hot spots after firecrews came under attack in recent years from yobs who pelted bricks and stones.

The cadet scheme was introduced in Bolton in 1997 with 30 teenagers joining the ranks. Two years down the line there are still 12 fire cadets training. And now their numbers have been boosted by a further 20 with the second intake at the Albert Road station.

Instructor, fireman Simon Connor, said: "We introduced the scheme because for some reason youths decided we were the bad guys and targeted us.

"I think it was probably just because we were in uniform but we want to show them that we're just normal people who are trying to do a job. The cadet scheme is more of a bridge-building exercise than anything."

The new members, all from the Little Hulton area, will complete the same training as regular firefighters as well as taking part in a range of outdoor activities and sports.

They will also complete a six week introductory fireman's badge course which will focus on fire safety and fire-fighting skills.

Scaled-down

On Saturday the new cadets and their parents were also treated to a fire-fighting display from some of the original cadet members.

The young team use scaled-down equipment and hose reels to those used by their professional counterparts.

Fireman Simon Hollinsworth, one of nine instructors, added: "The scheme has definitely given the children more responsibility and direction.

"We have been delighted with the results so far."

But the scheme also faces some financial uncertainty. It is currently funded by a grant from Salford City Council's Regeneration Budget but is due to become self-funding next year.

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