As we go to press 2 more of our 7 new recruits are undergoing their training in the Potteries, further details on this next month.  Cover the group has been able to provide has improved and in time will improve further, it is also hoped to delegate some of the administration work involved with a group of this nature.

We have launched a drive to raise funds to replace our response vehicle.  The current vehicle was purchased new in 2004 at a cost of over £30,000 after liveries and lights, siren and radios etc had been fitted.  So to replace it is going to be no mean feat in anyone’s standards.  Every little bit of help and support would be greatly appreciated.

We have a fundraising event on Wednesday 14th March from 7pm at The Greyhound Inn, Warslow, with a 3 course meal @£20 per head with £10 of that coming to ourselves.  Booking essential to The Greyhound Inn directly on 01298 687017.  We shall also have a raffle on the night, if anyone would like to donate a raffle prize please contact us – otherwise why not join us for a wonderful evening and help raise funds for a brilliant cause.

Donations to the group since the last news letter are very gratefully received, from the collection box at Paddock Tea Rooms £77.02.  We also received an anonymous donation for £75.  A coffee morning organized by Rose and Geoff Robinson £100.  In memory of Ailsa Kinsey of Warslow £140.  Thank you to Family and Friends of the late John Prince of Moseley Cottage, Longnor for £200 in John’s memory. In memory of John Williamson of Badgers Croft, Longnor £295.  Thank you also to the Williamson family for the very generous donation of £5000 in John’s memory.  Thank you everyone for keeping the group running and for all your support in helping to kick start our new vehicle fund. Thank you all very much.

A reminder that in the event of you calling 999 for assistance, West Midlands Ambulance Service will mobilise a Community Paramedic Officer (CPO) and ambulance as well as the nearest First Responder group who are on duty which, dependant on the incident location, could be Flash & Longnor, Wetton & Alstonefield, Dane Valley, Mayfield & Ellastone or Waterhouses.  As each group is run by a small number of volunteers, who may have work and family commitments, it is not always possible to provide 24 hour responder cover. This means all groups cover a wider area than their name may suggest.  Consequently whoever is closest and on duty can respond to a call as directed by the ambulance control centre.

For any information about fundraising or if you would like to train to become a First Responder please contact us. Thanks.