IF you have the ability to stay cool under pressure, an organisation that helps save lives in Knutsford needs you.

The town’s Community First Responder (CFR) team is asking residents to step forward to see if they have what it takes to be a volunteer.

First responders are those who provide first aid for people in the critical minutes before an ambulance arrives.

Knutsford currently has 11 first responders that answer more than 70 calls a month.

But the team, which has been in operation since 2002, is now looking for new recruits.

Nicola Lomax, community resuscitation development officer for the North West Ambulance Service, said: “You need to be able to reassure the patient and remain calm under pressure.

“Community First Responders are not a replacement for an emergency ambulance vehicle but an ‘on-call’ member of the responder team working in the area from where the call is made, may be nearer and able to provide help within a matter of a minute.

“Anybody can volunteer and be a part of the group as long as they’re committed to four hours a week or 16 hours a month.

“Knowing first aid is useful but not essential as training is given. There have been quite a few success stories in Knutsford, it’s an active team.”

First responders are given an emergency radio so that they can answer 999 ‘red calls’ within their area.

They are trained to deliver basic life support and defibrillation to patients suffering cardiac arrest and can give oxygen and first aid.

Knutsford CFR also held an awareness day at Booths supermarket on Friday and Saturday when 11 potential recruits signed up.

Volunteers can be male or female, aged over eighteen years and no previous experience is necessary.

Nicola added: “Bring yourself forward and get in touch with the Knutsford group.

“It’s about being part of a team and giving something back to the community.

“You’ll be particularly helping older members of the community.”

For information, contact the group on 01772 903 989 or visit either of the websites: knutsfordfirstresponders.org.uk or nwas-responders.com.