A SMALL skip fire was a sobering experience for a pub's staff, who decided to take first-aid and fire safety exams.

The fire behind The Courtyard in Guisborough was tackled by a member of staff, but the incident made the rest of the team realise how little they knew about dealing with emergencies.

Pub owner Kevin Morgan, an offshore worker, called in experts from Billingham's Nutec Safety Centre, who had previously taught him to survive in the North Sea.

Ten members of staff took a one-day course in fire awareness and basic first aid.

Barmaid Julie Medley from Middlesbrough said: "There was a serious side to the training, but the instructors made it good fun.I think everyone really enjoyed it and I would certainly feel more confident about tackling an emergency situation."

The training was tailored to deal with problems that could arise in the pub such as a customer collapsing or a small fire.

All those who completed the course received a Fire Awareness and Basic First Aid certificate as well as a National Heartstart certificate.