COMPANY bosses are being called on to help support a major event teaching youngsters how to stay safe.

The Danger Dodgers day was held for the first time this year in Malvern, last month, and was hailed a huge success - with a total of about 330 Year 6 pupils from schools in the area taking part.

The joint initiative involved West Mercia Police, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, St John Ambulance and a host of other organisations driving home the safety message by staging various real-life scenarios, encouraging children to think about the safest course of action.

The multi-agency safety scheme also runs in Worcester every September and will be in its fifth year.

Now project manager and firefighter Darren Greenwood is holding a VIP evening on Tuesday, April 5, at Worcester's Guildhall - to which MP Mike Foster has been invited - to promote the project and increase support.

A total of about 50 guests, including chief executives of various city companies, have been invited..

Mr Greenwood said he hoped it would help them attract more funding for the scheme - which has a budget of £2,000 - as well as encourage people to volunteer to help run it.

The organisers are also keen to secure a suitable permanent venue for the Worcester initiative - as well as offers of transport to ferry youngsters to and from schools in a bid to cut costs.

"It's a worthwhile event for personal safety for these children," said Mr Greenwood.

"We want to make sure we can continue running it, but without funding and support it would collapse."

For further information, contact Mr Greenwood on: 01527 839653 or e-mail: dgreenwood@hwfire.org.uk