TOP recruits to the region's fire-fighting teams are to be honoured in a passing out parade tomorrow.

Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade holds a presentation day for 23 trainees at 11am in the brigade training centre in Barmston Mere, Washington.

The trainees, including firefighters from Middlesbrough, Sunderland and Tyneside, will show off skills learned in their intensive training course in front of their families and fire chiefs.

Awards to be presented to the top students include the coveted silver axe, the George Madd trophy for the most proficient breathing apparatus wearer, two distinction certificates and the McCormack award for the best mark in the practical exam.