A SERIES of fast-paced activity days designed to equip youngsters with valuable skills that might one say save lives have taken place in Thaxted.

Crucial Crew, an event organised by the Uttlesford Community Safety Partnership (CSP) and led by Uttlesford District Council officers, took place at Clarence House in Thaxted.

Five weekday sessions from Wednesday June 16 until Tuesday June 22 are set to provide thought-provoking interactive learning.

Uttlesford District Council community safety officer Martin Ford said: “We have had fantastic feedback and support. The evaluations before and after Crucial Crew showed the children had a marked difference in their knowledge of safety issues.”

A total of 10 workshops made up each session: railway safety, road safety, fire safety, drugs and alcohol, smoking, internet safety, criminal damage awareness, bullying awareness, shoplifting and first aid.

Mr Ford explained: “Through scenarios we teach the children the consequences of making the wrong choices while pushing them towards the right choices and taking responsibility for their actions.”

The scheme is part of a national initiative that aims to teach children how to tackle the dangers of real-life and prevent them from becoming involved in crime.”

The former policeman added: “It is important to engage youngsters so they can avoid dealings with the police and become good citizens.”

High Sheriff of Essex Lady Rosemary Ruggles-Brise said: “Anything that is helping keep children off drugs and the street and helps them not to offend or reoffend is important.”

Lady Ruggles-Brise praised the evolution of the programme which now includes internet safety, adding: “Essex is always at the forefront of thinking.

“I am very proud of our fire and police services who are always pushing ideas forward.”

In total over the five days, 1,039 10- and 11-year-olds from 37 primary schools across Uttlesford will take part in the experience, ensuring that the key safety messages in Crucial Crew are communicated to practically every year six pupil in the district.

For more information on the work of Uttlesford CSP visit uttlesford.gov.uk/CSP.