A group of young people from Macclesfield have graduated from a Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service-led The Prince's Trust programme.

The graduation took place at Crewe Hall, and the team all gave a two-minute speech about their time on the character-building course.

The speeches were in front of a packed audience of local dignitaries, family, friends and people who have helped and mentored them over the 12-week course.

The ceremony started with an official welcome from the High Sheriff of Cheshire followed by a drinks reception and dinner before the presentation took place and then followed by closing remarks from Councillor Rachel Bailey from the Cheshire Fire Authority.

Those graduating were; Nick Barrowcliffe, Jason Harwood, Joe Ruffley, Aidan Jenkins, Matt Marshall, Joe Proud, Carla Figueira.

Stephen Thornley, Prince's Trust Programme Manager for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service admired the success of the Macc youngsters.

"I think these individuals should be very proud of what they have achieved," he said.

"It has been a lot of hard work and they definitely deserve to celebrate this now, it has been a pleasure to lead them and work with them over the last 12 weeks."

From raising money for a community project by bag packing at a local supermarket, Food hygiene, health and safety and first aid courses. These teens now have skills with them for life, and a great booster for their CV.

They also took part in a Disability awareness training and driving safety course, as well as a confidence building workshop.

The Prince's Trust Team programme is a 12-week free course giving young people between the ages of 16 and 25 the opportunity to learn new skills, complete qualifications and gain greater self-confidence.

The next team will be running from 24 January 2022 and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is now recruiting for team members so, if anybody is interested, or you know anyone aged between 16 and 25 who you think would benefit from The Prince's Trust Team programme, here's where you can find more information and how to apply here.

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