TRAINED life savers in Haddenham and Little Downham have given more than 6,000 hours of service in their first year of operation.

Community First Responders in the two villages have just celebrated their first birthday - and are still looking for new members to join them.

It was back in October 2010 that the two groups were set up, with support from the East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST).

These life saving groups are run solely by dedicated volunteers. Both groups were trained and equipped to provide immediate aid and treatment to those in their community whilst the ambulance is on its way. Being local, the responders, commonly known as CFRs, are able to arrive quickly and start treating the patient.

Lorna Hayes, community partnership manager for the North West Sector of the East of England Ambulance Service said: “Over the past year the two groups have given over six thousands of hours of their own time and have attended over 70 patients within their local community.

“These patients were suffering from medical emergencies such as chest pains, breathing problems, or were found to be unconscious, or fitting.”

Lorna added: “The groups want to thank those in the community who have supported them in their first year, and they are now looking for more volunteers to join them in being trained up to save lives.”

If you are interested in volunteering as a community first responder, or supporting your local group, then please e-mail responderadmin@eastamb.nhs.uk or phone 01767 600822.