Ref. 25974_05CHILDREN took a crash course in first aid, courtesy of Swindon St John Ambulance.

The classes, which ran from Tuesday to Thursday, took place at Ferndale Junior School, as part of its after- school and holiday-club programme of activities.

Technokidz play leader Sue Embling said: "It's a great opportunity for youngsters to learn how to cope when an accident happens. They have had a brilliant time getting to grips with the bandages."

Trainers from Swindon St John Ambulance taught the five to 11-year-olds about the recovery position, how to put an arm in a sling and how to dress burns.

Everyone who completed the course gained their St John Ambulance Young Lifesaver Award.

It certainly got Stephanie Turner's thumbs up. The eight-year-old said: "I liked watching the first aid videos the best. It's really important that you know what to do in an emergency."

Jack Embling, seven, the playleader's son, said: "If someone has a heart attack or something I think I will know what to do. Everyone should know what to do."

Sam Jones too thinks the training has prepared her to deal with a situation.

"I think I would probably know what to do. Without courses like this people would die."