RAF Henlow's First Response Team has been given a boost after ejection seat manufacturer Martin-Baker donated the cash required to launch the service.
A cheque for £12,000 was presented to Corporal Tom Wheeler of RAF Henlow First Response Team at the Martin-Baker headquarters on Friday. The funds will buy essential kit for the team as well as pay for training in emergency care.
The First Response Team will be overseen by the East of England Ambulance Service, but manned by volunteers from RAF Henlow.
Once set up and running, the team will provide support to the Ambulance Service outside normal working hours, attending emergencies within the community as required.
The aim is to reduce response times in the rural area, especially in the event of cardiac related incidents where every second counts.
Sergeant John Marsh, the team coordinator, said: "It was brilliant to hear from Martin-Baker that they would donate the set up costs. The team can now begin training and acquire the car and other equipment. It's been a lot of hard work to get this far, so it's a relief that we finally have the funding."
The team is made up of both regular and reserve members of the armed forces based at RAF Henlow.
Corporal Wheeler, who is currently mobilised with No 3 Tactical Police Squadron, Royal Auxiliary Air Force, said: "The team are very keen to get started with the scheme; this is something that can really help the local community."
Corporal Wheeler joined the RAF Police Auxiliary Squadron in 2010 and has undertaken a variety of overseas operations with the Tactical Police Wing based at RAF Henlow. He is soon to commence training as a Special Constable with Hertfordshire Police Constabulary.
As well as the response vehicle, the team will have access to medical equipment ranging from various bandages and dressings through to medical gases, pulse oximeter and defibrillator.
They will also be provided with a surprisingly large amount of ancillary equipment, including sat navs, digital radio sets, mobile phones and even a gazebo for long term support of major incidents.
The scheme is funded entirely from donations, and therefore requires constant support to maintain skills and equipment. If you would like to donate, please contact Sergeant John Marsh, Practice Manager, Medical Centre, RAF Henlow, Beds, SG16 6DN, tel 01462 851515 ext 7473.
