Young people worked together and learnt new skills during a week-long LIFE (Life Intervention Fire Education) course at Rushmoor Fire Station and TAG Farnborough Airport recently.

A total of 12 young people took part in the course, aimed at 11-16 year-olds from Hart District Council and Rushmoor Borough Council areas. The course provides young adults with the chance to develop and learn new talents by using a framework of strict boundaries and a variety of challenges. All participants received an accreditation at the end of the course, qualifying them for educational credits, which contribute towards other programmes and qualifications.

The LIFE courses, which are run each year at Rushmoor Fire station, along with a 12-week Prince’s Trust course, form part of a youth engagement strategy, which helps develop and strengthen local partnerships and communities.

Paul Green, Safer North Hampshire Antisocial Behaviour Officer, said: “I would like to thank everyone who referred youngsters onto this course. As usual, we were fully subscribed for the 12 places. It is our intention to run the next course in October or November, and some of those who were not selected for this course will be considered for the next one.”

Mr Green said this course was particularly special because it was the last time the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Group Manager (for Hart and Rushmoor) Martin Walters, would be involved due to his retirement in the summer. Mr Green said: “Martin has been instrumental in the continued success of the LIFE course in this area. We are all so very grateful for what he has done.”

At the Passing-Out Parade for all the LIFE course participants, Martin was thanked by Hampshire Police Chief Inspector Annabel Berry, Assistant Chief Fire Officer Mick Crennell and Chief Executive Andrew Lloyd of Rushmoor Borough Council. He also received thank you cards and a gift to thank him for the help and support he has given.