TOWN MP Karen Lumley recently met with dedicated St John Ambulance volunteers at their unit in Cedar View, Redditch

First aiders demonstrated some of the basic life saving first aid skills they learn as well as showing Mrs Lumley around their unit and one of the charity's fully equipped ambulances.

Robert Gadd, who is the St John Ambulance unit manager for Redditch and Studley, said: “Our volunteers looked forward to meeting Karen and showing her just how simple it can be to learn the basic skills that can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved.”

Sue Roberts, who is regional director for St John Ambulance in the West Midlands, said: "We are delighted that Karen has chosen to visit St John Ambulance during National Volunteers Week.

"There are hundreds of dedicated volunteers in the Worcestershire area who give up their free time to provide first aid at public events or pass on life saving first aid skills to the public, week in and week out.

"It is great that she has had the chance to learn more about the work of our charity during her visit.

Speaking after her visit, Mrs Lumley said: "It was great to meet the volunteers at Cedar View.

"Life saving is one of the most important set of skills we can learn but still far too many people are unaware of the basic skills required.

"St John Ambulance volunteers up and down the country work tirelessly to keep the public safe and they should be applauded."