STUDENT journalists grilled police chiefs during a mock press conference at Worcester Police Station.

DS Chris Percival, DC Kerry Holloway, DS Will Brimmell and Supt Kevin Purcell were questioned about a firearms incident based on a real case.

It was up to the 30 first year University of Worcester students to get the full story from the officers after being given a press release with only the basic details.

With all the information they gathered during the press conference they will be writing an article which will be used in their portfolio.

Rachel Ammonds, Journalism course leader, thanked West Mercia Police for giving the students a unique insight into life as a reporter.

"As far as a learning experience goes it's so valuable to be in a real life situation but in a safe learning environment.

"They are learning the skills that they will be able to put into practise and when they're moving forward with their careers they can say they've had press conference experience and know what's expected."

Student Matthew Dibble, age 20, said: "It's been really interesting. It's a lot more relaxed than I thought it would be - I thought it might be more formal."

Eleanor Prince added: "I really like being able to look into a different side of journalism and it was great to have one to one contact with the police.

"It was a lot more of a personal experience than just having for a press release."