SEVEN local people celebrated with friends and family on Friday, September 13 following their completion of the Phoenix Project course, run in conjunction by Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service and Launceston Job Centre.

The course, which was developed by Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) and funded by Jobcentre Plus Devon Cornwall and Somerset aims to provide support and training to increase the employment opportunities of those who take part.

Referred by their local Jobcentre, all participants are given the opportunity to gain an ASDAN level one qualification in Improving Own Learning and Performance together with the HeartStart accreditation in emergency life support techniques.

Launceston's group spent five days getting kitted out in uniforms, marching, communicating in various situations, including having to shout (to hear above engine sounds), hose running, using breathing apparatus, searching for casualties, as well as individual and group presentations.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the 'Post'.