Lucky children from Portland Class at Beaucroft Foundation Special School, Wimborne, enjoyed two visits thanks to Variety The Children’s Charity. The events were organised by Variety Wessex volunteer John Stein.

Springbourne crew manager Adam Moss and fire fighter Jason Bethell welcomed the children and gave them an interesting tour that included watching a fireman come down a very long fire pole, seeing the crew’s fitness gymnasium and the kitchens and mess-room. The children were able to try on fire fighters uniforms and climb up into a fire engine to discover how all the equipment is stored and get a firefighters view from the cab.

Fun with the firehose. Crew manager Adam Moss helps the youngsters enjoy squirting water from the firehose

For both visits the children, aged ten to fourteen, enthusiastically took part in various outdoor challenges including rolling up fire hoses, using a rope to haul in weights and carrying containers of water. There was a lot of laughter and cheering as the youngsters raced each other to complete each task. The most exciting activity was undoubtedly learning how to use a fire hose. The huge smiles on the children’s faces, as the water gushed from the hoses, was a joy to see. It was a chilly day and very good that the firefighters supervision meant that everyone managed to stay dry!

Crew manager Adam Moss with one of the pupils taking part in the races.

Frances Cornelius, chair of Variety Wessex said:

Thank you John Stein for arranging such interesting and exciting days at Springbourne Fire Station. A big thank you to Adam Moss and Jason Bethell for looking after the children so well and giving them such wonderful experiences. Their trip to your fire station gives them some wonderful memories to share with their friends and families.

Beaucroft pupils with John Stein, crew manager Adam Moss, and firefighter Jason Bethell. Class teacher Chris Woodward and teaching assistant Nicola Collins in firefighters’ uniforms.

John Stein, owner of Taylor Made Estate Agents said:

These two days are just the beginning of a series of visits for local children. It has been marvelous to be involved with the fire fighters who have given the children some amazing experiences which have been instructive and very much enjoyed.

Chris Woodward, class teacher of Portland Class said:

We have just returned from the second visit to Springbourne Fire Station with Portland Class pupils. Another fantastic trip. Both groups had a great time. Please pass on our grateful thanks to John Stein from Variety Wessex and to Jason and Adam who were amazing guides at the fire station.

Beaucroft pupils try on the firefighters uniforms.

Riley said:

It was really cool. My favourite part was seeing the fire crew get into the engine and head off to an emergency.

Alfie said:

It was fun doing the fire test races and putting on the fire fighters outfits.

A bit of competitive fun during the visit.