CHILDREN from The Ark pre-school and nursery enjoyed a trip to Liphook Fire Station to find out more about fire prevention and safety.

Firefighters Andy Lucas and Glen Mason were on hand to show the children around the fire engine, try on helmets, and switch on the siren and flashing blue lights.

Much to the children’s delight, the water hose was turned on and they took it in turn to practice hitting a target with the stream of water.

Head of the nursery Alison Jackson told The Herald: “The visit always creates great excitement amongst the children. Since last year it forms part of what the children are learning about fire safety on Bonfire Night.

“When we get back to the nursery they will be making their own fire engine, be involved in activities including firework drama, produce some art work, create their own fire station as well as make up stories involving fire safety awareness during playtime.”

Children learned about safety from firemen Andy and Glen, who told not to touch anything hot and never play with matches, which could cause a fire.

Liphook Fire Station is fully operational and has answered 188 call-outs and 330 calls for the co-responder so far this year, covering the parish as well as Bordon, Haslemere and parts of West Sussex.