Firefighters back in class

Last school year the authority met nearly 63,000 pupils - reaching 93% of schools and smashing a target of 75%.

Now fire crews want to expand the scheme even further by reaching out to all independent and religious schools, as well as children and young people with special needs.

Topics covered with primary school children include the dangers of playing with matches and lighters and the importance of having a working smoke alarm and fire plan. New for this year will be an animated education package.

Older pupils will learn about the consequences of driving irresponsibly, through a programme focusing on speeding, drinking, drugs and not wearing a seat belt.