A taste of fightingfires at tender age

Harry wore a yellow helmet as he climbed abroad a fire engine for a tour of the West Meads estate.

The four-minute journey over, he declared himself delighted with the experience. 'I enjoyed it. It was brilliant,' he said.

His chance to ride in the machine came during Bognor Regis fire station's open day last Saturday.

Scores of children enjoyed the chance for a 1 fee to ride in the cabs of two former emergency appliance. The ever-present queue was 30 deep at stages throughout the busy day.

There was also the opportunity to throw a wet sponge at a firefighter '“ another event that Bognor resident Harry enjoyed.

But the occasion also had a serious side. His mum Helen said: 'Coming here teaches children about safety. We watched the firefighters cut a car open as if it had been in a crash. We explained that's what happens if there is an accident.'

The day's popularity means it is now likely to be held every year instead of the usual two-yearly interval.

Fire station watch manager and events co-ordinator Alan Blair said he was grateful for everyone's support. 'We've had a good number of people along. It's good to get the community in to know us.'

The open day was begun by Pagham motor racing legend Derek Bell. Fire appliances from Bognor, Arundel and Littleha- mpton were on show. Other emergency services there included the Sussex Safety Camera team and St John Ambulance.