EMERGENCY medical response charity Magpas will launch a new team of first responders in Wicken. South-east Cambridgeshire MP Jim Paice will attend the launch party at Wicken Mission Hall on Saturday, March 24. Community first responders are local non-med

EMERGENCY medical response charity Magpas will launch a new team of first responders in Wicken.

South-east Cambridgeshire MP Jim Paice will attend the launch party at Wicken Mission Hall on Saturday, March 24.

Community first responders are local non-medical people who volunteer for training by Magpas before taking it in turns to be on call.

Responders can be at a scene quickly and arrive in the crucial moments which can save lives.

One of the new volunteers, Sue Murfitt, came forward after an incident that brought home the importance of the charity.

Mrs Murfitt is an insulin-dependent diabetic, and one night last July started to fit. Her husband called for an ambulance but the crew could not find her address.

Mrs Murfitt said: "The ambulance service does a wonderful job but a remote village like Wicken needs people on the scene as quickly as possible - that is what our Magpas group will be able to do."

Wicken residents Sue McRae and Patricia Mathieson founded the group, which is the 30th branch of Magpas.

Magpas spokesman Christian Morris said: "I think volunteering to save lives in your local community when you have no previous medical background is incredibly brave. It shows a real commitment to the local community."

The event will feature a 14-piece dance band and a licensed bar and food and entertainment will also be available. Entrance is £3.50.