YOUNGSTERS turned firefighters for the day when they had to rescue a teddy who was trapped in a building in Bolton.

The children did not think twice about going to help the toy bear and quickly donned fire uniforms and makeshift breathing apparatus to climb through tunnels and over obstacles to reach it.

Luckily, the bear was not in real trouble -- for the emergency incident was part of Bolton Fire Station's open day.

The Firefighter Experience was just one of the attractions at the annual event which attracted more than 2,000 people. Fire engines past and present were also on display, including the brigade's rescue boat, an aerial ladder appliance and a four wheel drive off-road vehicle.

Members of Bolton Mountain Rescue team were also on hand to chat to visitors.

Demonstrations were carried out throughout the afternoon including a simulated accident in which passengers had to be cut free from a car and a real chip pan fire with tips on how to deal with it.

Station Officer Jim O'Byrne from Bolton said: "It gave people an idea of what we do and gave us a chance to interact with the public.

"They got the chance to meet the crews, look around the appliances and equipment we use and it was great fun for the children.

"On a more serious note, it gave us the opportunity to pass on safety information."

The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Cliff Morris, who officially opened the event, said: "It is wonderful how they got the community involved.

"Visitors were able to have fun, while learning about fire safety."