A GROUP of teenagers has been given a fire engine in a pilot scheme aimed at correcting behaviour problems.

The youngsters, aged 13 and 14, and who have behavioural problems including truancy and bullying, lined up at Peterlee fire station, in County Durham, to become the first recruits on the tough project devised to get them back on track.

Before beginning their one-day-a-week course the pupils, from Shotton Hall Comprehensive School, in Peterlee, were issued with navy blue uniforms and were then shown the fire engine, which has been purchased exclusively for their use.

The innovative scheme, called Firebreak, is being funded by the Easington Youth Inclusion Programme and is being run by a team of professional firefighters headed by Station Officer Gary Noble.

Mr Noble was quick to point out that while the course would be no "jolly holiday" it would enable the youngsters to develop skills, a sense of community, an acceptance of discipline and self-esteem.

After a day being drilled in the fundamental routines of the fire station, the recruits stood quietly to attention while Darlington and Durham Fire Brigade's Chief Officer, George Herbert, officially launched the scheme.

He told the youngsters: "This scheme is about working together. We will provide the training and the rest is up to you.

"I am already impressed with you at the end of the first day."

But he warned that any misbehaviour would result in dismissal from the course.

During the 12-week sessions, Station Officer Noble, who helped draw up the programme, said the young people would be "trained as firefighters by firefighters".

Their tuition would not only be in firefighting but would also include first aid lessons, community projects, discussions on substance misuse, dealing with simulated road traffic accidents, accepting discipline as well as a fishing expedition and abseiling.

All the youngsters will be given homework and be required to keep a diary.

They will also receive accreditations during the course, and the scheme will culminate with a passing out parade on December 12.

With the signs already promising that the scheme is going to be a success, Station Officer Noble expressed his hope that the project would be repeated throughout the county.