Taking a look at St Johns base

St John Ambulance’s new £600,000 headquarters on Telford Drive, Newark, was open to visitors at the weekend.

About 130 people took the chance to view the facilities and equipment, and talk to members.

There was also the chance to practise resuscitation on a dummy. Children could take part in safety and map-reading competitions.

The superintendent of the Newark division, Mr Philip Jessop, said Saturday was busier than Sunday and the event went better than expected.

Visitors included people who donated money towards the cost of the building.

Also showing his support was the chief executive of Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society, Mr Adrian Johnston.

St John Ambulance volunteers will be attending the forthcoming Newark and Nottinghamshire County Show at the showground in May.

Mr Jessop said about nine youngsters expressed interest in joining the Badgers, the unit for five to ten-year-olds.

About five potential members asked about the Cadets, for ten to 18-year-olds, and several people inquired about joining the adult volunteers.

Mr Jessop said the organisation still needed volunteers and anyone interested should contact him.

He said people had also asked about first-aid courses and that there were places available on the two-hour Breath of Life courses in May.

The courses cost 25p, the equivalent of five shillings, the price charged in 1877 — the year St John Ambulance started to provide first-aid in Newark.

Anyone interested can register at the St John stall in the Market Place on Newark Day, May 4.

Mr Jessop can be contacted on 07973904808.