A PILOT scheme to tackle arson and hoax fire calls by training youngsters as firefighters could be extended.

Yesterday, 11 pupils from Shotton Hall School, in east Durham - the first participants in the Firebreak scheme - took part in a passing-out ceremony at Peterlee fire station.

It followed 14 days of training over a three-month period, in which fire officers taught the youngsters skills such as firefighting, rope rescues, first aid and road accident rescues.

The course participants were chosen because they were considered to be at risk of committing anti-social behaviour.

Following their training, teachers noticed a marked improvement in their conduct.

Now there are plans to extend the scheme throughout County Durham.

Station Officer Gary Noble, of Peterlee fire station, said: "Initially, we identified 12 students through the youth offending team and 11 students have completed the course.

"The feedback from Shotton Hall School is that some of the kids who, prior to the course, were known to play truant, have had 100 per cent attendance since the start of the course.

"According to the headteacher, their behaviour has dramatically improved.

"As far as the fire service is concerned, we have made 11 friends who had the potential to cause deliberate fires and make hoax fire calls but will not do that now."