A SIXTEEN-week youth project, which aims to build the self-confidence of those taking part, has been launched at Wisbech Fire Station. Eleven young people have started the project, which will also teach them about the importance of road safety and fire sa

A SIXTEEN-week youth project, which aims to build the self-confidence of those taking part, has been launched at Wisbech Fire Station.

Eleven young people have started the project, which will also teach them about the importance of road safety and fire safety, and will help develop team building skills.

The project will be held every Monday night at the fire station, in Churchill Road, from 7-9pm.

It is the first joint partnership between Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Office of Children and Young People's Services and is funded by the Safer Fenland Partnership.

Project organisers hope the young people will be able to use the skills they are taught during the project in future education and employment.

Martin Boome, station manager at Wisbech Fire Station, said: "The young people were issued with their own kit and will behave as fire-fighters throughout their training evenings.

"They will also be invited to help out at some of the many community safety events held by the service throughout the summer months."

Lizzi Wales, youth work co-ordinator for the Office of Children and Young People's Services, said: "From this pilot project we aim to be able to role the course out to other young people in the Wisbech Locality, and be able to offer the project to other areas of Fenland.