Students at Brooklands College became fire investigators for a day as they helped determine the cause of a blaze.

Staff set fire to a mattress inside a room of the specially designed burn house at the college, which was created to help students gain practical experience.

After blue watch from Painshill fire station put out the blaze, forensic science students investigated how and where the fire started and analyse evidence to identify suspects.

Dale Brunt, tutor at the college, said: “It is important that students have access to realistic scenarios as possible to help their studies. Students will use their findings from this practical exercise for their coursework assessment.”

The activity took place in the grounds of the college on Wednesday, February 26.

Painshill firefighter Glyn Parry-Jones said: “We were pleased to be involved with this unusual activity and for the students to see the safety involved”.