A fire engine with its blue lights flashing and siren sounding, skills games and dressing up in fire fighters’ uniforms .

Just some of the activities enjoyed by pupils from Beaucroft Foundation School in Colehill when they visited Springbourne Fire Station.

The children, from the special school’s Portland class enjoyed two visits thanks to Variety, the Children’s Charity.

They were organised by John Stein who owns Taylor Made estate agency in Southbourne Grove, Southbourne.

A volunteer with Variety Wessex, John partnered with Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue for the visits.

Adam Moss, Springbourne Crew Manager, and Fire Fighter Jason Bethell welcomed the children and gave them a guided tour.

It included watching a fireman come down the fire pole and seeing the crew’s fitness gymnasium, kitchens and mess-room.

They also tried on uniforms and climbed up into a fire engine to discover how all the equipment is stored as well as have a firefighters’ view from the cab.

For both visits the children, aged ten to 14, took part in various outdoor challenges including rolling up fire hoses, using a rope to haul in weights and carrying containers of water.

They particularly enjoyed learning how to use a fire hose.

Frances Cornelius, Chair of Variety Wessex, pictured with John, said: “Thank you John for arranging such interesting and exciting days at Springbourne Fire Station.

“A big thank you to Adam Moss and Jason Bethell for looking after the children so well and giving them such wonderful experiences.

“Their trip to your fire station gives them some wonderful memories to share with their friends and families.”

John has been involved with Variety, the Children’s Charity for the past 17 years.

He has previously organised a number of freshwater fishing days for youngsters with learning and social difficulties.

John said: “These two days are just the beginning of a series of visits for local children.

“It has been marvellous to be involved with the fire fighters who have given the children some amazing experiences which have been instructive and very much enjoyed.”

Chris Woodward, Portland class teacher, described the visits as “fantastic”.

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Dorset Biz News Gallery – Pictures by Hattie Miles.