RIOT police came under fire from missile-hurling youths at a derelict hospital.

But the clash, at the former Aycliffe Hospital, County Durham, was all part of an exercise to help police with their riot training.

Durham Constabulary asked the Durham Army Cadet Force to help make the exercise as realistic as possible. About 50 cadets from D Company arrived at the deserted hospital to be briefed by police officers.

The cadets, all aged 15 to 18-years-old, were drawn from Barnard Castle, Darlington, Newton Aycliffe, Spennymoor and the surrounding area.

Cadet force spokesman Stephen Todd said it was the first time he had known the group to be asked to take part in such an exercise.

"Hurling abuse and rocks at officers, the cadets enjoyed every moment. The evening warmed up somewhat as the petrol bombs started flying and cars were ignited by fire," he said.

"This was a very unusual activity for cadets to be involved in and no doubt they will remember it for a long time."

The Army Cadet Force is open to youngsters aged from 13 to 18 years and nine months. For more information, telephone (0191) 388 2351.