FOURTEEN youngsters have taken part in a course aimed at steering people away from anti-social behaviour.

The youths, aged between 12 and 17, participated in Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Local Intervention Fire Education (LiFE) course, held at Potters Bar fire station over five days.

The intensive programme, funded by Hertfordshire County Council and the St Albans Crime and Disorder Reduction partnership (CDRP), aims to challenge the behaviour and attitudes of young people who are at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour.

During the week, the teenagers learned a number of skills, including how to use breathing apparatus, hoses and ladders.

The course was rounded off with a pass-out parade, where the participants showed off their new skills to their families and friends.

Cllr Keith Emsall, executive member for community safety and culture, said: “I am fully supportive of this scheme, which seems to be going from strength to strength.

“These young people, and their families, should be proud of their achievements, and I hope they continue to make a success of their lives.”

This is the 27th course to be run in Hertfordshire since the launch of the LiFE course in October 2006 and since then 400 young people have taken part across the county.