FAMILY and friends watched on as 13 young people with Down Syndrome took part in a fire service pass out parade.

The event was held at Maldon Fire Station on Wycke Hill on Thursday and saw the youngsters recognised for building their skills.

The Firebreak course is held in conjunction with charity Down Syndrome Extra 21.

Each participant is given the chance to build their skills by working together while boosting their confidence and teaching the value of team work.

They also get the experience of accepting responsibility as they took part in a series of challenging tasks including using the fire service’s hose reels, wearing specialist breathing apparatus, climbing ladders and rescuing people trapped in buildings and smoke-logged rooms.

Essex Fire and Rescue Service was the first in the UK to create a course for people with Down Syndrome.

The course is open to young people and adults and was nominated for a Guardian Public Service Award.

It has also won a World Down Syndrome Day Award from Down Syndrome International.

The award recognises the scheme’s outstanding achievements, which have strengthened and enriched the lives of people with Down Syndrome.

Like traditional Firebreak courses, the aim is to assist in improving communication skills and to show those taking part how to work in teams and problem solve along the way, giving them new confidence and motivation.