BUDDING firefighters in Audlem can look forward to training alongside professionals when a cadets scheme is launched next Easter.

Cheshire Fire Service has confirmed that the scheme, to be based at Audlem Fire Station, will be up and running next spring for around 16 lucky teenagers in the village.

The youngsters, aged 13 to 18, will train once a week with the station's firefighters and will play a full part in the station's operations and drills.

They will also have the opportunity to complete BTEC qualifications, as well as take part in the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme and activities organised for fellow Cheshire cadets.

Sue Cleaver, youth support officer for Cheshire Fire Service, said: "Audlem was selected because it is a rural area that tends to get forgotten, despite the fact that it still has the problems associated with youngsters having nothing to do.

"The cadet scheme will be a major boost for Audlem and its outlying villages.

"The fire station is very community-centred and its staff are very keen to take on new personnel that actually come from the area.

"The firefighters themselves will be doing the work involved in the scheme voluntarily because they see it as putting something back into the community."

Starting with an initial intake of around 16 cadets, the fire service believes that the scheme will grow as more recruits are taken on in the future.

It has been designed to give youngsters the skills that they are unable to develop through their academic studies, and to show them the important role they play in the community.

Mrs Cleaver added: "The scheme will instil skills that do not come with academia, like teamwork, self-confidence and communication skills.

"Through working with the firemen, we can give youngsters those skills to take into the world.

"It is also very much about making sure that both sides of the community see how beneficial this can be.

"The youngsters themselves will be able to see that they can play a part in community life."

Although the scheme is certain to go ahead, Cheshire Fire Service is currently looking for funding to pay for a dedicated cadet room and uniforms.

Mrs Cleaver said that despite the "great support" of Audlem Parish Council and the police, the service was still looking for further sponsorship.

Anyone who would be interested in sponsoring the cadets can call Sue on 01270 254907.