MORE than 1,000 youngsters in Hartlepool received a safety message from experts at the town's power station.

Over a two-week period last month, about 1,100 pupils from 30 schools took part in the 12th annual Crucial Crew event, held at the plant.

Specialists from Hartlepool Borough Council, CE Electric UK, Cleveland Fire Brigade, Hartlepool Primary Care Trust, Cleveland Police, HM Coastguard and Network Rail delivered safety sessions relating to fire, kitchens, roads, electricity, railways, building sites, fireworks and the sea and coast.

The programme was interactive and fun, organised so that the children could learn important safety lessons through role play and eye-catching demonstrations, such as spraying water and high-voltage sparks.

Power station director Stuart Crooks said: "More than 15,500 children have visited Hartlepool Power Station to take part in this event over the past 12 years.

It is a tremendous opportunity to help young people learn how to look after themselves."

Emma Thompson, a member of the Crucial Crew committee and Hartlepool council's officer responsible for health and environment, said: "I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the whole committee and all the children who have attended Crucial Crew, to thank everyone at Hartlepool Power Station for their fantastic support over so many years."

To take part in next year's event or to volunteer services, call Debbie Simpson, at Hartlepool Power Station, on 01429- 853535.