PUPILS proved a captive audience for a crime beating project aimed at steering them away from trouble.

The youngsters, from Deerness Valley Comprehensive School, Ushaw Moor, Durham City, were locked up for the day under the Prison! Me! No Way! scheme.

A life-sized fully furnished prison cell was constructed in the school yesterday, and youngsters experienced the restrictions placed upon prisoners, a period of authentic prison exercise, and lunch served prison style.

Emergency vehicles were on the scene to add a touch of realism to the day and pupils also saw the workings of the legal system in a workshop with magistrates.

John Johnstone, a serving prison officer who is coordinating the project, said: "We recognise that there are lots of pressures on young people today.

"Drugs unfortunately are accessible, and a minority of young people become involved in things like vandalism, car crime and shoplifting.

"But life is all about making the right choices and being safe, and the scheme helps demonstrate to young people the importance and value of being a responsible young citizen."

Deerness Valley headteacher Joan Sjvoll said: "I think it opened the pupils' eyes and offered them a broader view of the justice system."