IT'S fun, it's free and it could help save lives!  Ten and 11 year-olds from nearly 30 primary schools in West Devon had the time of their lives when they took part in an action-packed day they'll never forget at this year's Junior Life Skills event.

 The children, all Year 6 pupils from all schools within the borough, learned vital new skills to keep themselves and others safe.  They also learned how to be good citizens during their specially structured session, which was completely free for those taking part. 

The event took place at Okehampton Army Training Camp, where the children were faced with nine different simulated scenarios, each of which they may encounter in real life.

With the help of trained experts at each scenario, they learned how to recognise potential danger, deal with emergencies and be socially responsible.  

Junior Life Skills, now in its 16th year, is organised by West Devon Borough Council and this year's scenarios were set by Devon and Cornwall Police; Devon County Council Road Safety Team; Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service; the RNLI; British Red Cross; Dartmoor Training Area (Army) and Landmarc Support Services; and West Devon's environmental health, and recycling departments.

The annual event is completely free to the schools, and it could not have taken place this year without the generous donations and support from NHS Devon; the Manor House Hotel, Okehampton; Okehampton Educational Foundation; Okehampton Town Council; Tavistock Town Council; Lions Clubs of Tavistock and Okehampton; Rotary Club of Tavistock; West Devon CVS, The Co-operative; Lidl Ltd; Kevin Cooper; Antalis McNaughton Ltd; Devon County Council, Kelly College; Okehampton College; Focsa Services (UK) Ltd and West Devon Borough Council.

Contributors towards this very worthwhile event are always welcome. If any local businesses or organisations would like to become involved with future Junior Life Skills events, please contact Dotty Allan, of West Devon Borough Council, on  01822 813624.