Sheffield and Rotherham first aiders recognised

Volunteers who have spent 100 years providing first aid in South Yorkshire have been recognised.

Sixteen St John Ambulance first aiders, aged between 20 and 65, attended a ceremony where they were presented with certificates.

They give up their free time to provide first aid cover at events.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The volunteers also attend weekly meetings to upgrade and put their first aid skills to the test.

Events they help out at include Rotherham United football matches, the Sheffield Tramlines music festival and Christmas lights switch-on ceremonies, where organisers know there will be large crowds.

Rowena Clarkson, from Brinsworth, who is an advanced first aider and nurse at Clifton Medical Centre, Rotherham, is the longest serving volunteer in the district, with 37 years under her belt.

She is also a youth leader of the Rotherham No 1 and Enzor unit within St John Ambulance Service and last year did a 15,000ft skydive to raise funds for the charity.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The 54-year-old grandmother has come to the rescue of many people over the decades but recently helped to save the life of a young man who fell unconscious at a festival.

She placed him in the recovery position until an ambulance arrived.

St John Ambulance area manager, Ken Hill, said: “I am very proud to have so many dedicated volunteers going that extra mile every week to support others in training or by going out to public events large and small.

“They gladly give up their time to help others, with many members volunteering between 500 and 1000 hours per year.”

For more information about volunteering call 01924 262726.