Heroes come in all shapes and sizes for youngsters as they meet their emergency services

That was the lesson given to children when they met workers from the emergency services as part of a play scheme’s heroes’ week.

More than a dozen children, aged from three to 11, met police officers and the HM Coastguard staff as part of a half-term scheme by child care company Dream Catchers.

Deputy station officer Liz Hurrell and Bill Dearsley, volunteers at the HM Coastguard, headed along to the hut to meet the children yesterday.

They gave a presentation telling the youngsters about the role of HM Coastguard and how they can get the service’s attention whenever they are in a dangerous situation by the sea.

Joe Huntley, six, dressed as a ninja for the day. He said: ‘It was really interesting to meet them.

‘I learnt that they save people from drowning and if you ever get stuck in the mud. They are definitely heroes as they do a good job.’

The youngsters had been treated to a visit by police officers from Hampshire Constabulary the day before.

Haidyn Farmer, eight, said that the police were some of his own personal heroes.

He said: ‘It was interesting meeting the police as they told us all about how to be safe and what we need to do when we can’t find our parents in the shops.

‘The Coastguard is cool as well as they save people a lot in their jobs.’

The day was held at the 70th Portsmouth Scout Group’s hut in Evelegh Road, Farlington.

Youngsters were given the chance to see some of special equipment used by the HM Coastguard, from special boots for walking in mud to safety reels.

Ms Hurrell said that it was a important age for children to learn about their emergency services.

She said: ‘It’s important for them to learn all about the hazards now when they are at this age and we want to make sure they get the right message when it comes to keeping themselves safe.’

St John Ambulance and Guide Dogs for the Blind are due to visit the Scout hut this week.

Caroline Brennan, of Dream Catchers said: ‘The kids have taken to the services and some of the talks have been really spectacular. The services have given us great support.’