A BRAND new unit has opened in Halstead to help train budding firefighters.

The new Fire Cadets unit based at Halstead Fire Station is the seventh of its kind in Essex.

The Halstead Fire Cadets unit will serve the northern region of Essex, providing young people aged 13 to 17 with an engaging and educational experience in the fire service.

Cadets will participate in a wide range of operational activities aligned with the National Fire Cadet Award, including hose running, ladder pitching, pumping, breathing apparatus training, search and rescue operations, first aid, control room procedures, and the science of fire.

In addition to these hands-on experiences, cadets will also work with the Prevention Department, firefighters and partner organisations to help the communities of Essex become safer.

This will include some community engagement, home fire safety activities, fire station events and open days.

Cadets will also have the opportunity to work towards their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards, further enriching their personal development.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a non-competitive, voluntary program that helps young people develop skills, build confidence, and serve their communities.

Aileen Wilson, education and specialist intervention manager for the Essex Fire Service, said: “Our cadet programme is a nationally recognised three-year initiative which will now run at seven fire stations across Essex.

“We’re excited to expand our reach with the new unit in Halstead, I’d like to thank our new Cadet Instructors for stepping up and providing even more young people the chance to learn about fire safety and community engagement.”

Fire Cadet applications will re-open in Halstead, Clacton, Dovercourt, Great Baddow, Harlow, Orsett and Southend next year.

For more information, visit essex-fire.gov.uk/fire-cadets.