Capital of Culture

Volunteers in Merseyside celebrated their support of Liverpool’s fantastic Capital of Culture year by providing first aid at a ceremony marking the end of the 12-month event.

The final event of the culture year celebrations took place at Liverpool’s new waterfront area last weekend where a light show and firework display was watched by 35,000 people, many of whom were at the opening event where Ringo Starr and Dave Stewart entertained the masses at St. Georges hall.

St John Ambulance members once again provided first aid support at the event with 30 volunteers, two ambulances and mobile first aid units, response teams and support staff providing cover to the thousands of members of the public, civic dignitaries and the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport; Andy Burnham MP.

David Large, Duty Commander at the event said: 'This event has been an amazing end to an amazing year – in all weather and situations our volunteers have been there from the beginning to the finish, their dedication is brilliant. Fortunately, only six people needed our attention tonight with one other being taken to hospital. All were minor injuries. A good night for all concerned.'

The Culture year has seen a staggering 7000 events staged in Liverpool, and St John Ambulance provided support at 750 of these. As the primary first aid provider for the Liverpool Culture Company - set up to manage the cities events, volunteers in Merseyside have been involved from the very beginning.