MORE than 150 proud family members and friends gathered at Droitwich Fire Station to celebrate the achievements of 22 teenagers.

The youngsters, of the Droitwich and Redditch branches of the Young Firefighters Association (YFA), took part in a passing out ceremony to mark their completion of a training programme.

The group took part in a 13-week training course with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and were each presented with a certificate by chief fire officer Mark Yates.

They also demonstrated some of the skills they have learned during their training, including hose running, ladder climbing and house fire rescues.

Mr Yates said: “It takes determination and commitment to complete the YFA programme and they should be proud of themselves.”

There are plans to set up a YFA branch in Evesham.