YOUNG firefighters on a scheme at Southend fire station have won a silver medal at the World Firefighter Games.

The team of young people from across south Essex competed in the games at Liverpool.

The event saw teams from around the world running across an obstacle course, searching for parts to complete a mini-fire engine.

They then assembled the fire vehicle and used it to extinguish a fire.

The team of 15 to 17 year olds came second in the final against a team from Warwickshire in front of a crowd of 11,000 spectators in the Echo Arena.

The entire event was devised, arranged and organised by the Youth Development Team at Essex Fire and Rescue Service.

Donna McBride, youth development manager, said: “We were all so proud of the young firefighters.

“Their behaviour was impeccable the entire time we were there.

“They really did show Essex in a fantastic light and showed great sportsmanship both in victory and defeat.”