A group of teenagers have been given a fire engine of their own in a new pilot scheme aimed at correcting behaviour problems.

The youngsters all aged between 13 and 14 and who have displayed difficulties from truancy to bullying, all lined up at Peterlee Fire Station to become the first recruits on the tough project devised to get them back on track.

Before beginning their one-day-a-week three month course the pupils from Shotton Hall Comprehensive School in Peterlee were first issued with smart navy blue uniforms and were then shown the fire engine which has been purchased exclusively for their use.

The innovative pilot scheme titled Firebreak is being funded by the Easington Youth Inclusion Programme and is being run by a team of professional firemen headed by Station Officer Gary Noble.

And Mr Noble was quick to point out that while the course would be no "jolly holiday'' it would enable the youngsters to develop skills, a sense of community, an acceptance of discipline and self esteem.

After just one day being drilled in the fundamental routines of the fire station the group of young recruits stood quietly to attention while Darlington and Durham Fire Brigade's Chief Officer George Herbert officially launched the scheme.

He told the youngsters: "This scheme is about working together, we will provide the training and the rest is up to you.''

Mr Noble added: "I am already impressed with you at the end of the first day,'' but he warned that any misbehaviour would result in dismissal from the course.

During the 12 week sessions, Mr Noble who helped draw up the programme, said the young people would be "trained as firefighters by firefighters.''

Their tuition will not only be in firefighting but will also include first aid lessons, community projects, discussions on substance misuse, dealing with simulated road traffic accidents, accepting discipline as well as a fishing expedition and abseiling.

All the youngsters will be given homework and be required to keep an ongoing diary.

They will also receive accreditations during the course and the scheme will culminate with a proper passing out parade on December 12.

With the signs already promising that the scheme is going to be a success Mr Noble expressed his hope that the project will be repeated throughout the County.