A group of young people have researched, scripted, directed and shot a film investigating the impact of arson on their community.
The 13 participants on the Prince’s Trust Team programme, which is based in Wisbech and run jointly by fire and police services, made Fenland in Flames as part of their community work on the 12-week personal development course.
Station Commander Paul Clarke, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service’s community risk manager for Fenland, said: “We have been so impressed with how the Prince’s Trust group grasped this opportunity and delivered an informative piece which has exceeded our expectations.
“We hope those involved in the project have learned more about the consequences of arson and now we will hopefully spread their message by uploading the film online for others to see.”
The Prince’s Trust Team programme aims to increase confidence, motivation and skills, enabling young people to gain employment, move into education or undertake training or an apprenticeship.
Steve Lucas, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service’s team leader, said: “This is our third Fenland team and they have worked extremely hard to overcome real obstacles to complete the course.
“Before the programme a lot of them felt negatively about themselves and didn’t think they were worth much, especially within the community.
“After the 12 weeks, however, they’ve found out how much they can do and how they can change for the better if they work hard.
“Some have jobs and interviews lined up in coming weeks and some of the younger ones will be making decisions on their future. We now hope they will continue with their new sense of purpose and move onto great things.”
The young people who took part were Jordan Baker, 23, of Wisbech; Stacie Buckland, 18, of Wisbech; Annie Eardley, 21, of Wisbech; Leigh-Anne Edwards, 22, of Walpole; Robyn Hammond, 18, of Sutton Bridge; Ryan Hancock, 22, of Gorefield; Gareth Horsley, 25, of Wisbech; Daniel Reid, 21, of Wisbech; Sheldon Johnson, 17, of Sutton Bridge; Luke Jones, 19, of Wisbech; Louise Kettleborough, 19, of March; Thomas Marchis, 16, of March; Jamie Westhorpe, 24, of Wisbech.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here