A CITIZENS challenge in Stourport saw more than 1,200 youngsters take part in summer safety awareness workshops over a seven-day period.

During the Wyre Forest Citizens Challenge (YCC) - hosted by West Mercia Police - the year six pupils have been learning about some key safety measures at awareness workshops such as stranger danger and cyber safety, fire dangers and risks, water safety, electricity substation safety, learning about anti-social behaviour and road safety.

PCSO Neil Sharp, from the youth engagement and cadet team, said: "As we approach the summer, it is important that we help young people to be able to enjoy the good weather and the holidays harm-free.

"The week has been a great opportunity for us toe educate young people about dangers which, when you are young and having fun, you might not think will injure you, or worse.

"Each year, many young people become victims through situations that may have been avoided had they fully understood the dangers to them.

"Working with our partner agencies like the fire service, Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA), Western Power, Safer Roads and the Wyre Forest DC Ranger service at events like this, we hope to reduce the risk to young communities and protect them from harm."

West Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner, John Campion - who provided grant funding for the challenge - added: "I am proud to back valuable programmes like this, which play an important part in keeping young people safe and secure, now and in the future.

"It is pleasing to hear of young people fully engaged in the workshops, gaining valuable advice and tools to keep themselves away from harm.

"Through my grants scheme, I will continue to deliver projects which reassure and protect our communities."