Barry lifesavers praised for work (From Barry And District News)

Barry lifesavers praised for work

THE multitude of potentially life-threatening calls answered by the Barry First Responders in just their first year has reiterated the need for new volunteers.

Last Thursday, a year on from the launch of the scheme, the ten original volunteers, as well as seven others who had just completed their training, were congratulated for their achievements at a special evening of celebration. The event was organised by the Welsh Ambulance Service, and hosted by Vale of Glamorgan Mayor, Cllr Margaret Alexander.

Welsh Ambulance Service First Responder Officer Tony Rossetti said: "The official launch allows us the opportunity to recognise and congratulate the Barry volunteers for the dedication and commitment shown to the scheme and the important service they provide to their community."

Cllr Alexander said: "I am delighted that hosting this event provides me with the opportunity to emphasise the importance of the First Responder initiative, and to welcome the news that another set of volunteers have completed their training as part of the Barry Community Scheme."

Mandy Armstrong Brown, 35, of Palmerston Road, Barry, has just completed her training.

"I did my first call last night," she said. "I'm no longer a First Responder virgin"

"I went out with another volunteer to an 85-year-old woman with breathing difficulties. It was really nerve-wracking, but you just have to get on with it."

Mandy, who currently works as an auxiliary nurse, is due to start a nursing degree soon. Her dream is to eventually become a paramedic.