STUDENT thespians set the stage alight when they shot a fire safety video to warn youngsters about the dangers of arson.

Media students from Worcester College of Technology and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue produced a 15-minute short film aimed at increasing fire awareness and safety among 11 to 14-year-olds.

The film, shot on a disused industrial site opposite St Martin's Gate car park, will be used in schools across the county.

The dramatic scene involved fire and rescue members rushing to save a teenage boy who was escaping from an abandoned building that had been set on fire.

Officers entered on ladders and fought the fire while one officer treated the victim.

Community safety officer Dave Holland was on hand to supply the smoke for the scene and ensure the actors were safe at all times.

"Arson is a serious danger and often leads to the cost of lives, property and businesses; for that reason it is such an important message," he said.

The video is funded mainly by Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and is part of a continuing partnership with the college media department. Last year a similar video was made by students highlighting the dangers of road safety.

Tom Hill, media lecturer at the college, said: "The scheme gives the students an opportunity to put their talent into practice, but the focus is on increasing awareness.

"We have had an ongoing partnership with the fire and rescue department for the last two years and feel it's a great success."

HND theatrical make-up and costume students created the victims' realistic wounds and charred faces that took hours to apply. Leading man Luke Morgan, aged 16, who played the main burns victim, is looking forward to the end product.

"It took two hours to put the burns make-up on my arm but I think it looks really realistic. It has been a really successful day."