A GROUND-breaking scheme to crackdown on the scourge of arson was staged at a Hampshire fire station.

The aim is to stop youngsters being drawn into antisocial behaviour that could lead on to them deliberately starting fires.

Ten youngsters have spent five days climbing ladders, charging into smoke filled rooms and evacuating buildings as part of the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Local Intervention Fire Education (LIFE) scheme.

LIFE aims to reduce deliberate acts of arson by encouraging teenagers, aged 12 to 19, to develop responsible attitudes to fire and to take fire safety messages back to their homes and to their friends.

Brimming with confidence and full of enthusiasm, the team of youngsters celebrated after successfully completing the first intense fire prevention course to be held at Eastleigh Fire Station.

Co-ordinator Nick Willet said: "This has been the most challenging bunch of kids we have had but by the end of the five days we got them working as a team which is great.

"There are now plans to hold a second course here at Eastleigh because it has been such a success."

Tara Robbins, 14, was one of two girls on the course, she said: "It helped me overcome my claustrophobia as I had to get into a breathing apparatus outfit and go into a dark room. At first it was difficult but then I got used to it. I feel really proud of what I have achieved."