YOUNGSTERS from Bury learnt to look after themselves and others with a special workshop in personal safety.

The Bury Crucial Crew initiative, which involves health care, police, council and fire crew staff, presents young people with 12 separate hazard scenarios to think about.

Just under 1,800 pupils from 45 of the borough's primary schools took part in sessions at Bolton Institute's student union building.

Scenes included a crash involving a cyclist, in which youngsters were asked to consider the hazards that caused it.

They were shown how to behave around dangerous electricity pylons and warned about the perils of not protecting themselves from the sun.

In one situation, pupils were given a warning about stranger danger with the help of drama students from Bury College.

Fire officers were present to show children the best ways to stay safe in a blaze, and emphasize the importance of planning an escape route.

Greater Manchester Police were also on hand to give advice on safety on or near trams.

And an ambulance mock-up was staged to instruct youngsters on the best ways to deal with road traffic casualties.

The activities, which have run since 1995, will be relocated to Bury when the current venue is demolished in October.

Principal road safety officer Paul Birch said: "Schools that gave us feedback said that they were very satisfied and want be involved in the future.

"There have been instances where children have been able recall what they have learnt to help family and friends.

"We believe this may have gone some way to saving life."