News: Rotherham property set to come to life

An industrial property in Rotherham is being transformed into a mock town, built by the community for the community.

The new and improved Lifewise centre is due to open in September and has received massive support from local businesses, tradespeople and volunteers in its creation.

Lifewise is an interactive learning centre, based in Rotherham, run by South Yorkshire Police and South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue. Its main feature is a life-like set of a town where police, fire and other agencies deliver safety advice to the public.

The most popular programme is "Crucial Crew", which is offered to all year six school pupils in South Yorkshire. The children participate in a variety of scenarios in different areas of the set. Specialist officers equip the children with the skills and knowledge to make choices in everyday life in order to stay safe and away from criminal activity.

The centre relocated from Magna earlier this year to a new site at Hellaby, enabling a complete revamp of the set with improved houses, park, shops and pub and the addition of new areas such as a courthouse, an internet cafe and an accident and emergency department.

Sergeant Andy Harbon, site manager at the Lifewise centre, said: "We've had great support all-round. The Kier group have donated two joiners and two painters for a fortnight, Arnold Laver Timberworld have donated all of the wood to build the set and Morrisons plc have provided some of their tradespeople to help out, as well as giving great advice on health and safety.

"We've also had items and props donated to add to the authenticity of the set such as a fully-fitted and functioning kitchen from Howdens, a bus from South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) and a delivery truck from DHL."

Lifewise website

Images: South Yorkshire Police