Thousands Treated at Virgin London Marathon

First aiders from St John Ambulance treated thousands of runners and spectators at this year's Virgin London Marathon.

Expert support provided

St John Ambulance deployed 1200 first aiders, with 52 treatment centres set up to provide first aid cover along the 26.2 mile course.

Twenty five members of the London District Cycle Response Unit and 50 crewed ambulances were also at the event, making sure that the Charity was able to be the difference by giving first aid treatment to everyone who needed it.

St John Ambulance 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. St John Ambulance worked alongside London Ambulance Service during the event.

Treatment figures down, hospitalisations up

The total number of people treated this year has decreased from 6917 in 2010, but the number of people being transferred to hospital has risen to 88.

Ann Cable, Commissioner of St John Ambulance London (Prince of Wales's) District, said:

'Although the total number of people requiring treatment this year has fallen, the number of people who were taken to hospital is significantly higher.'

Proud of personnel

The Commmissioner said she was proud of the county's links to the Virgin London Marathon and pleased to have been able to provide treatment for those who needed it.

'It is hugely satisfying to know that we have helped runners who may have been struggling with injuries or ailments reach the finish line and raise money for deserving charities,' she said.

The scale of the Virgin London Marathon demands the highest level of planning and first aid care.

'Once again, our trained and dedicated first aiders, ambulance crews and medical staff have shown that St John Ambulance is committed to being the difference between a life lost and a life saved.'