PROJECT Bernie, an innovative project aimed at reducing the number of deliberately started grass fires is back in action in Caerphilly county borough.

Project Bernie delivers diversionary activities, area patrols, a media campaign and information to young people in and around the Bargoed area of Caerphilly county borough, to raise awareness of the damage that deliberate grass fires can cause.

From Monday, March 25, Caerphilly Youth Services, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service and the Welsh Rugby Union will be hosting an extensive two-week programme of activities. Attendees will be able to enjoy workshops including theatrical makeup, DJ and MC skills, jewellery making, and will also have the opportunity to experience the life of a fire fighter for a day.

With a climbing wall, X Box tournaments and rugby camps organised by the Welsh Rugby Union, there will be plenty to keep youngsters occupied.

Caerphilly Partnership Sergeant, Rob Davies, said: “Focusing our efforts to reduce the damage caused by the deliberate setting of grass fires in our communities is a priority for us at this time of the year.

“Police and partners will be patrolling in the grass land areas, so don’t be surprised to see uniformed officers in areas where you would not perhaps expect them to be.

“The setting of deliberate fires is a crime and destroys the environment in which we live. Project Bernie sends the message that there are many other constructive things to do to entertain yourself, as opposed to destroying your own environment.

Please remember, we will enforce the law against anyone setting deliberate, destructive fires in our community.”