Virgin London Marathon 2011
The streets of London will be filled with
thousands of athletes again this year for the Virgin London
Marathon 2011, and St John Ambulance's volunteers will be providing
care for both runners and crowds.
Volunteers from the nation's leading first aid charity have been
preparing for the event by organising the deployment of hundreds of
specialist vehicles and highly trained staff.
About 5,000 runners seek help at the St John Ambulance treatment
centres each year, and with approximately one volunteer for every
35 metres of the course, the charity can provide crucial first aid
wherever it is needed.
St John Ambulance will have treatment centres set up around the
Marathon course, with response cars, motorbikes and cycle responder
units on hand to react as swiftly and efficiently as possible.
Specialist crewed ambulances will also be ready to transport anyone
needing further treatment to hospital.
St John Ambulance’s experienced personnel will be in London from
all over the country to make sure that first aid treatment is
available to everyone who needs it. Injuries ranging from blisters
and cramp to sprains and strains will be treated, helping the
runners who can finish get back on their feet.
The charity has been providing first aid support to the London
Marathon since its launch in 1981, providing logistics,
administrative support and highly trained and experienced medics,
nurses and first aiders every year.
Ann Cable, Commissioner of St John Ambulance in London,
said:
'We are delighted to be supporting the London Marathon team
again this year. St John Ambulance is determined to be the
difference between a life lost and a life saved, and that’s why
we’re here to ensure the safety of competitors and those who turn
out to support them.
'One of the most satisfying things is being able to help runners
who are struggling with minor ailments or injuries to reach the
finish line and often raise so much money for deserving
charities.'