SCHOOLCHILDREN across West Devon took part in an action packed event at Okehampton Army Training Camp and learned useful lessons that one day could well save their lives.
The ten and 11 year olds from nearly 30 primary schools in West Devon had a great time taking part in the Junior Life Skills event.
The children, all year six pupils from both state and independent schools within the borough, learned vital new skills to keep themselves and others safe, and how to be good citizens during their specially structured session, which was completely free for those taking part.
At Okehampton Army Training Camp the children faced nine different simulated scenarios, each of which they may encounter in real life. With the help of trained experts at each scenario, they were be taught how to cope in today's world.
Junior Life Skills, organised by West Devon Borough Council and now in its 14th year, helped the youngsters to recognise danger, deal with emergencies and be socially responsible.
The scenes were set by Devon and Cornwall Police; Devon County Council Road Safety Team; Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service; RNLI; British Red Cross; Dartmoor Training Area (Army) and Landmarc Support Services; and West Devon's environmental health and recycling departments.
West Devon Mayor Cllr Terry Pearce said: 'Junior Life Skills is a challenge and great fun which is a perfect combination for children to learn some important messages. It's important to teach children how to avoid becoming victims, how to look after themselves and to learn how to be good citizens.
'They also have a clearer understanding of the role of the police and other emergency services.'
As the event is free to the schools, it could not take place without the generous donations and support from the Manor House Hotel, Okehampton; Okehampton Educational Foundation; Rotary Club of Tavistock; Tavistock Lions; Plymouth and South West Co-operative Society; Antalis Ltd Paper Merchants; Devon NHS Primary Care Trust; Okehampton Town Council; Tavistock Town Council; and West Devon Borough Council.