Magpas' newest group in Wisbech administer first aid to five people in first two weeks

THE newest Magpas lifesaving group has launched in Wisbech - and the team of volunteers have administered emergency first aid to five patients in just two weeks.

The group of five community first responders launched Magpas' 39th group across the county on February 8 after support from residents and Roddons Housing Association.

Magpas charity spokesman Debbie Florence said: "Everyone at Magpas is delighted that Wisbech now has its own community first responder group. Our volunteers can make a real difference by using their training and medical kit in local emergencies.

"The main supporters who helped fundraise for the group were Roddons Housing Association and other people within the local community. We are so grateful to everyone in Wisbech for making this possible."

Craig Gardner, the local volunteer co-ordinator, said: "We have all now received our Magpas training and we are ready to serve the community when needed.

"I'm sure everyone in Wisbech will be pleased that this service is now available and we are all looking forward to being able to make a difference."

The team of volunteers will be on call from now on and will be activated by the local Ambulance Trust when their assistance is required.

The community first responder scheme is run by the charity so residents in towns and villages across Cambridgeshire can receive emergency medical treatment as fast as possible.

Magpas trains and equips volunteers so they are able to make a difference when people suffer heart attacks or breathing difficulties in their homes or at work.

All community first responders are trained to use an automatic defibrillator, which they carry as an integral part of their equipment.

• Magpas relies solely on donations and fundraising from the public. Call 01480 371060 to find out how you can help.