STAYING safe was the important message shared with over 2,000 primary school pupils have have taken part in a Crucial Crew session.

The ‘hands-on’ event taught young people about important issues such as personal safety, anti-social behaviour, commuter safety, road safety, drug and alcohol awareness, difference, healthy relationships and E-learning.

Pupils were presented with a number of dangerous or challenging situations and took part in role-play exercises to learn how to deal with them.

They were also given the unique chance to learn valuable skills from the professionals, through practical demonstrations and discussions in real-life situations - all within a safe environment.

At the end of the session, the children were invited to take part in a poster competition by drawing what Crucial Crew had taught them.

The winner was Poppy Booth, aged 11, from St Matthew’s Primary School in Chadderton. She was so inspired by the day that she wants to become a police officer.

Poppy said “When I went to Crucial Crew I realised I wanted to join the police force. I also learnt that the number 101 can be called for non-emergencies.”

Councillor Barbara Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives and Neighbourhoods said “We take every opportunity to work with our partners to make sure our children are safe. Keeping them safe is our key priority. With so many potentially dangerous situations out there, it is increasingly important to equip them with skills and knowledge to help them deal with real-life scenarios.”