VOLUNTEERS are needed to become first responders in a North Yorkshire town.

The Stokesley Community First Responders scheme is looking to recruit more lifesavers.

The scheme began operating in Stokesley in March and its volunteers are on hand to provide the quick response needed when people suffer heart attacks and strokes.

Training is provided by Yorkshire Ambulance Service and skills are maintained by on-going training and monitoring. People interested in becoming involved can commit to being on duty as little as one or two days a month if they wish.

A spokesperson for the group said: “In the event of such a medical emergency - because the volunteer is in the local community - they can be on-scene within minutes to provide initial care, ahead of a paramedic team.

“It may be as simple as just giving the patient oxygen. Such simple initial care can, however, save a life.”

One of the volunteers, Joanne McCabe, said: “At first I was a little apprehensive but I went along and registered an interest and then got involved in the training. I met like-minded volunteers and quickly realised the value of the Community First Responder scheme.”

Volunteers will be holding an awareness day to recruit more volunteers on Saturday, October 11 in Stokesley Town Hall from 10am.

Anyone interested in helping can speak with the team on the day, or ring 07531 927927 for more details.