BUDDING police officers and future firefighters from across Dumbarton and the Vale got a taste of the action last week.

Pupils from Dumbarton Academy, Vale of Leven Academy, and Our Lady and St Patrick's High School joined forces with two Clydebank secondary schools - Clydebank High and St Peter the Apostle Secondary - to meet the experts.

Police, firefighters, paramedics and the coast guard arrived last week armed with knowledge and tests to put the budding emergency service workers through their paces.

Youngsters with a keen interest in entering the field were able to ask questions of their idols and gain first-hand experience of the work they do day-to-day.

Among the activities were the chance to practice lifesaving skills on a dummy and how to safely remove a patient from an ambulance, while the Scottish Fire and Rescue Services demonstrated the sheer strength required just to carry their uniform.

The day was declared a success and it is hoped the services will be able to host further events to help school pupils make the jump from education to employment in their chosen fields.