Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 23/10/2009 08:57

**Photo/filming opportunity**

The Cornish Pirates are joining forces with Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service on 3 November from 9am to 12 noon for a training session with a difference.

Firefighters from Camborne Community Fire Station and stars from the Pirates will hold a joint training session at the community fire station. The session will have a competitive edge and will include hose running drills, an obstacle course, setting up equipment and run through tunnels as the sportsmen, who will be wearing helmets, leggings and jackets, will take on Cornwall’s firefighters to gain an extra insight into the vital training and work they undertake.

The session will follow a similar pattern to training sessions run by the Phoenix Project. Run by Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service since 2002, the Phoenix Project is a Cornwall wide initiative geared towards students between the ages of 13 -17 which aims to encourage young people’s self-confidence; improve team work, communication skills and community spirit.

Cornwall’s firefighters already work with the Cornish Pirates to help promote community safety. At the Pirates recent home game against Bristol in front of a large crowd, firefighters from Camborne Community Fire Station were given the opportunity to attend the match and distribute leaflets with a community fire safety message.

Chief Fire Officer Des Tidbury said: “We are grateful for the opportunities offered by the Cornish Pirates to distribute fire safety messages to the local community and this latest initiative, taking place just ahead of bonfire night, will give us another way of engaging with people to reinforce those safety messages.”

Cornwall Council cabinet member for stronger communities Lance Kennedy said: “What a great way to give both sets of professionals a good work out and at the same time get people to think about fire safety.”

Ian Davies, Forwards Coach from the Cornish Pirates said:

“Facing all the various tasks wearing jackets, leggings and helmets will provide a different focus for members of the squad. However, with a competitive and fitness edge, they will no doubt be up for the challenge!”