On Wednesday 27th May, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service hosted the first BLAZE Passing Out Ceremony at Hailsham community fire station. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the 13-15 year olds who completed the BLAZE (Believe, Learn, Achieve, Zest, Explore) programme, which provided weekly education sessions exploring important fire and road safety messages but also anti-social behaviour, healthy living and coast safety.

Watch Manager Jason Hull who led the team of BLAZE instructors said: "The young people who participated in BLAZE displayed a great deal of development since the first session. They worked incredibly hard to expand their knowledge of road safety, fire safety, anti-social behaviour and healthy living while also improving their own individual fitness levels. Their fitness levels at the end of the course have increased significantly since the first session and we are incredibly proud of them."

The morning consisted of three sections. Firstly, the BLAZE University Quiz tested participants' knowledge of the ten subjects that were covered over the course of the programme. Quiz Master Mark Rist, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service's Wealden Borough Commander, hosted the quiz.

The Physical Fitness Test saw participants undergo the same physical fitness test that firefighters must pass in order to qualify for the role of a firefighter. Tasks included a ladder climb and leg lock, equipment assembly, a hose reel drag and a casualty rescue.

And finally, Chief Fire Officer Des Prichard in presenting the young people with their awards in a ceremony that was attended by friends and family said: "BLAZE was an excellent example of young people displaying skill, enthusiasm and energy in a pioneering project. The initiative supported young people in developing a great deal of self-confidence and in instilling a sense of pride in everything that they have experienced throughout the course.

He continued by saying "I would like to congratulate the young people that achieved so much from this course and also thank fire fighters Jason Hull, Kyle McClelland, Paul Henty, Rick Funnell, Steve Blunt and Paul Stevens whose instruction, passion and dedication made BLAZE an inspirational success."