A further ten secondary school pupils drawn from each of East Renfrewshire’s seven high schools have been presented with their Fire Reach certificates at Clarkston Fire Station by Strathclyde Fire & Rescue area commander Craig Cook.

They’re the latest youngsters to join a group of 350 pupils who have successfully passed out on the course since it began in 2004. Working and training with fire crews teaches the boys and girls discipline, self-discipline, team work and responsibility and some have gone on after school to join the service.

The courses are run jointly by fire and rescue and the council’s community safety, youth work and education service.

Area commander Craig Cook said: “I congratulate our latest ten young people who have passed out on this excellent course. It’s a tribute to their own hard work and to the commitment of our station and council staff