THOUSANDS of children will learn vital life skills at an annual safety carousel this winter.

From fire and road safety, to cyber bullying, the County Durham and Darlington Children’s Safety Carousel equips youngsters with skills to keep themselves and others safe.

This year 240 schools were invited to take part and 168 accepted, with more than 5,000 year six primary pupils expected to complete the series of six 30-minute workshops between now and March.

The series of events was launched at The Work Place in Newton Aycliffe today (Monday, November 24)

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service lead the project with help from Durham County Council, Durham Police, Northern Power Grid, Northern Gas Networks and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

Topics covered include fire safety, road safety, cyber bullying, electricity safety, gas safety and water safety.

This year, the event will be especially memorable for its organiser Watch manager Dave Yews, who is retiring after 27 years.

He said: “The events provide an interactive way of teaching young people to become aware of their personal safety and give advice about how to react responsibly in dangerous situations.

“They also inform all of those who take part about wider safety matters to help create a safer community environment.

“We aim to do this in a fun and friendly atmosphere, which we hope makes the sessions memorable and enjoyable.”