Little did we know during last November's meeting of Hixon Memorial Management Committee when we discussed the possibility of starting a Community First Responders Scheme, that we would be up and running in around 9 months and that the idea would be so positively taken to heart by the surrounding villages.

The volunteer rapid response team covers an area of approximately 5 miles from Hixon, which includes Colwich, the Haywoods, Weston, Salt and Sandon and all the rural communities in between.

A big thank you is therefore needed to everyone who has contributed, from village halls, WIs, allotment associations, local charities, fete committees, local companies businesses and all the individuals, who have donated their time and money. Because of these fantastic examples of community spirit, we can announce that the target of £11,000 for the first year's set up costs, which include a vehicle, uniforms, insurance and equipment, has just been reached. This is an absolutely amazing achievement!

We now have two fully trained First Responders who are already active, and another volunteer is booked on a training course in February. Ideally we would like a minimum of four responders, so in conjunction with West Midlands Ambulance Service, who oversee the First Responders scheme, there will be a recruitment campaign during January, which we will be publicising around the villages. With successful schemes already running in Rugeley, Cannock, Abbots Bromley, Uttoxeter and Stone, we are filling a geographical gap, with the intention of the scheme growing and continuing to make a real difference to the local communities.

If you are interested in becoming a CFR or would like to donate, please contact Mark Farrington 07814 - 453326