Youngsters’ pride at Prince’s award
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YOUNG adventurers from across Halton have graduated from the Prince’s Trust Team programme run by Cheshire Fire And Rescue Service.
The 11-strong group collected their awards at a ceremony at Park Royal Hotel in Warrington.
They donned black tie and evening dresses for the glitzy bash and gave a two-minute speech about their time on the course.
The speeches were in front of a packed audience of dignitaries, family, friends and people who have helped and mentored them over the 12-week course.
Those graduating were: Jack Dunn, Charlotte Goulden, Josh Grimwood, Kerne Grimwood, Kerne Gwillym, Mitchell Huskisson, Matthew Murphy, Kyle Owen, Chris Pollard, Tom Swindley, Melissa Warrington and Nina Wright
Their programme manager was Jason McTigue and assistant programme manager was Stuart Baxter.
The team took part in activities such as raising cash for a neighbourhood project by bag-packing at a supermarket, food hygiene and first aid courses, disability awareness and fire awareness, a four day team building event in North Wales.
Tamsen Lesko, Prince’s Trust project co-ordinator for Cheshire Fire And Rescue Service, said: “This free course is another example of how the service pro- vides value to the community.
“Over the last 12 weeks these young people have learnt respect, self-confidence and a variety of new skills.
“They have grown as individuals and now have clear aims and objectives in life.”
Cllr Bob Rudd, Cheshire Fire Authority chairman, attended the event.
He said: “The graduation was a great success and the young people should feel extremely proud of themselves.
“This course is another example of how the Cheshire Fire Authority provides value to the community.
“A lot of the young people on the course have few or no qualifications and have become disen- gaged, leading to social problems.
“Over the last 12 weeks they have learnt respect, self-confidence and a variety of new skills.
“They have grown as individuals and now have clear aims and objectives in life. They have also found some new friends.”
The Prince’s Trust Team programme is a free 12-week course giving young people between the ages of 16 and 25 the opportunity to learn skills, complete qualifications and gain greater self-confidence.
The next Prince’s Trust Programme starts in Halton on May 30.
To take part call 07817 691 030 to find out more or visit www. cheshirefire.gov.uk