A SET of students saw at first hand how crash victims are rescued from mangled wreckage following a traffic collision in a demonstration by firefighters.

Saints mascot Boots and teen beauty queen Bethany Cammack took part, playing victims of a road accidents.

The ‘rescue’ took place in the grounds of Cowley International College and involved students Oliver Davies and Tira Simms, who had to be cut free from cars.

Fire crews from St Helens and Newton visited Cowley along with police, to hammer home the message about road safety.

Sixth form students were told about the dangers of drink-driving, not wearing seatbelts and possible distractions in the car.

Media students also filmed the demonstration.

St Helens fire chief Chris Case said: “Events such as this are a very good way of engaging young people and giving them an idea as to how emergency services work together when responding to a road traffic collision.”

Cowley’s work related learning manager, Julie Wright, added: “We appreciate that young people enjoy the freedom to drive.

“We hope that as the nights draw in closer and with Christmas fast approaching, that this display acts as a timely reminder for students to be safe behind the wheel.”