STUDENTS at South Craven School, Cross Hills, got a taste of prison life on Monday.

For the second year running, year nine students participated in the "Prison, Me, No Way" project, designed to deter youngsters from turning to crime.

Youngsters were given an insight into the prison regime of cells, detention, workshops, exercise and even prison food.

The event was hosted by HM Prison Leeds and North Yorkshire Police.

"There are so many issues facing youngsters these days such as Drugs, alcohol, crime vandalism and general anti-social behaviour," said school liaison officer PC Chris Galley. "This is a very imaginative way of spelling out the dangers of becoming involved in this kind of behaviour."

South Craven is one of the largest schools in North Yorkshire and was one of first to take up this initiative.

Headteacher Andrew Cummings said: "Students benefit from their interaction with the many experienced professionals involved. It is a very valuable experience for them."

Agencies involved included North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue,West Yorkshire Metropolitan Ambulance Service,Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Victim Support, the Craven Organisation for Drugs and Alcohol (CODA) and mobile phone communication company O2.

Funding for the event was provided by Skipton Building Society, Cross Hills company Joda Freight, Glusburn Parish Council and South Craven Community Education.