The 999 Academy at Bridgwater & Taunton College was recently visited by the Police and Crime Commissioner of Avon and Somerset Police, Sue Mountstevens. 

Sue spent over an hour chatting to the staff and students and inspected them as they paraded in their fire kit. The students spent the evening at Bridgwater Fire Station where they all practised rope rescue procedures and abseiled down the fire tower.

They were also given the chance to be taken 100 feet high in the hydraulic platform. Gabby Trout said that she was terrified but was really glad that she did it!

Sue said,

“I’m very interested in the 999 Academy as I’ve heard so much about it. I believe it is a fantastic way for students to learn about the emergency services and I am extremely supportive of it. I hope I can visit again soon.”

Ruth Burrows, who leads the 999 Academy at Bridgwater & Taunton College said,

“It was a great honour to meet Sue and introduce her to the students. The 999 Academy is a huge asset of the College and is supported by all local divisions of the emergency services, Avon and Somerset Constabulary, Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service and the South Western Ambulance Service. The students are all really proud to be part of such an enterprising team and were pleased that the PCC was able to find time to visit them.”

Rosie Walker said that she felt privileged to meet such an influential figure and Starlena Hancock said that she felt proud to meet her and tell her about all the other activities that they do.

The 999 Academy meets weekly at Bridgwater & Taunton College and is open to all students who are enrolled at the College. For further information please contact Ruth Burrows on 01278 441225 or email burrowsr@bridgwater.ac.uk.