YOUNGSTERS had their fingerprints taken as part of a project aimed at showing them the work of the police.

North Yorkshire County Council’s fostering service teamed up with the police to run the scheme.

It involved children from the county council’s foster carers section who met police officers in order to view a number of demonstrations.

Sergeant Jacqui Raynor and police community support officer Steve Normandale led the sessions.

Ros Hutchinson, the county’s fostering service manager, said: "This was a brilliant way to show children the importance of policing, in caring for the community and helping children care for themselves.

"They thoroughly enjoyed having their fingerprints taken, but they also learnt about more important things like the dangers of alcohol abuse and anti social behaviour."

Sgt Raynor said: "We wanted to show children what it’s like being in the police force. The children really enjoyed the experience of having their fingerprints taken.

"The real purpose was to change perceptions of the police and show children that we’re not scary people. We are just ordinary people, doing an important job."

To find out more about becoming a foster carer, call Fostering North Yorkshire on 0800-389-2362.