Essex first responder group celebrates 15th anniversary

The South Woodham Ferrers Community First Responders (CFRs) are celebrating their 15th anniversary – attending more than 3,400 life-threatening medical emergencies since going live in June 2000.

The then Essex Ambulance Service was chosen for the national CFR pilot, with the first group in Brightlingsea forming in 1997, and South Woodham Ferrers three years later, becoming the 13th group in the country.

Three of the founder members of South Woodham Ferrers CFR’s are still active members of the group including the co-ordinator and deputy co-ordinator, Peter Blackman and Ian Bolton.

Ian said: “We would like to thank all our valued members that have been part of the group over the years. The group has also always had tremendous support from our local community.”

Anthony Marsh, Chief Executive of the East of England Ambulance Service Trust said: “It is a remarkable achievement to have volunteered in this life-saving role for 15 years and I would like to thank Ian, Peter and the group for their dedication and commitment to helping patients. I am very proud of them and they will always have my full support.” 

“They have made a real difference to their local community.”

Published 9th July 2015