YOUNGSTERS have had a taste of life as a member of the emergency services after police and fire crews came to visit Midget Gems Childcare.

The Richmond-based childminder, run by Sarah Butler, was visited on Wednesday by PCSO Nicole Randall in a police van.

Ms Butler said the children were thrilled to try on police clothing, sit in the van and even try on a pair of handcuffs, before proudly giving their guest a tour of their play rooms and garden.

She said: "This term we are looking at people in our community, and the different jobs people do.

"We provide hands-on experiences for the children to see things beyond their usual setting, which helps create links in their learning.

"We talked about calling the 999 and 101 numbers, and they all learned about evidence and taking finger prints. Nicole also showed the children her radio, which they thought was like a walkie-talkie.

"The children were beautifully behaved and gave her a tour of the woods where they build dens, and the play rooms."

The fire service paid a visit in the afternoon, providing more excitement for the nine children, aged between one and four.