The Phoenix project is a course designed to assist in redirecting the energy of youngsters towards productive and worthwhile activities that will assist in the integration of the individuals with their peers and their communities.

Nine youngsters from Bangor, Caernarfon and the Nantlle Valley took part in the sessions which are designed to enhance skills such as team work and communication whilst helping the youngsters to gain self confidence.

The most recent course, held at Llanfairfechan Fire Station, was financed by the Gwynedd Community Safety Partnership Safer Communities Fund, which is provided by the Welsh Assembly Government.

During the week the students were given the opportunity to see the work carried out by North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and were allowed to take part in drills. In addition, various other outdoor activities were arranged as well as a visit to the control room to see how emergency calls are received and appliances mobilised.

Gareth Griffiths, County Safety Manager for Gwynedd, said:  "I am glad to say that this has been another great success for this exciting project.  The aim of the course is to assist the youngsters in becoming more motivated and positive about themselves, which in turn has the effect of making them better citizens.

"We are hoping that these children will feel that they have gained something positive from the Phoenix project and feel that it will be of benefit to them in the future.

Geraint Jones of the Gwynedd Community Safety Partnership, said: “The Partnership is pleased to fund the Phoenix Project again this year and to be associated with a course which is committed to providing diversionary activities for young people in Gwynedd, showing them in a positive light, promoting awareness of community safety and to deter young people from committing anti-social behaviour. “