PRIMARY schoolchildren in Northwich have been taught life-saving skills as part of a community engagement project.

Pupils at Rudheath Primary Academy have been put through their paces as part of Cheshire Police's 'Mini Cops' scheme.

In the project, local PCSOs have been delivering important messages on road safety, littering, and vandalism, among other topics.

And now the officers have tried to broaden the children's first aid knowledge, teaching them basic, but potentially life-saving, skills.

This included learning about burns, bleeding, CPR, choking, and the recovery position.

The event was run by PCSOs Karen Nixon and Angela Richardson, supported by PC Alex Aston, and funded by Crimebeat.

PCSO Nixon and PCSO Richardson said: “The children were a credit to their parents and carers and to their school.

“It was a fantastic day, and it was lovely to see the children enjoying the activities and learning crucial life skills.

“We have been running this programme since December and we are already seeing the benefits; the children can’t wait for their next adventure.”

Chief Inspector Leeroy Moss added: “Mini Cops is a really special project which demonstrates our commitment to improving youth and community engagement across the county.

“This scheme allows the children to play an active role in keeping their communities safe, and learning first aid is another step in helping them act as role models to their peers.

“The benefits of knowing basic first aid cannot be underestimated, and I would like to praise the enthusiasm and dedication shown by the Mini Cops in taking on board these key life skills.”