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Teenagers are being urged to join up for the 999 Challenge which gives them the chance to learn more about the emergency services through team work and community activities.

The scheme offers young people a chance to learn new skills including picking up life saving techniques and improving personal safety.

Winning teams will go on to receive coveted awards and could continue their learning experience through the Prince?s Trust for Volunteers which aims to help young people improve their jobs hopes.

Teams can be aged between 15 and 18 years and must be invited to join a team by the police, fire or ambulance leaders in the area.

Girls and boys from all backgrounds and abilities are welcome to take part and must complete four main phases to notch up points to win.

Competitors spend 12 weeks behind the scenes with the emergency services before taking on a challenge day when they will be confronted by five realistic scenarios to test how each team copes.

Phase three involves a weekend of intensive team building in the Lake District followed by the final phase involving teams in a month-long community project.

After six months, teams are invited to a presentation evening when deserving team members will be given the 999 Challenge certificate.

The winning team will receive the prestigious Greater Manchester Police 999 Challenge Team Trophy.

Teams are now being recruited and details can be obtained from the local Police Youth Development Officer PC Jo Hynes at Grey Mare Lane Police Station on 0161 856 3504.