Sunderland City Council joined landmarks across the country to light up for St John Ambulance day, with the likes of Penshaw Monument, the Northern Spire bridge, and The Beacon of Light shining green from dusk on Thursday 24 June throughout the night.

Throughout the last year St John Ambulance have been vital within Sunderland by responding to the pandemic and helping vulnerable residents. The work provided by the charity also coincides with Sunderland City Council’s aim to promote volunteering within the city. Having set up a Volunteering Hub, employees and residents are encouraged to give back to the community, and St John Ambulance volunteers are a prime example of why this is so important.

Cllr Linda Williams, Portfolio Holder for Vibrant City, said: Sunderland City Council was delighted to be able to support St John’s Ambulance and their volunteers as they continue to work on the NHS vaccination programme, respond to the pandemic, and start returning to event duties and providing first aid training. Lighting our landmarks up in green is just one way in which we can recognise the amazing work they do.

The work that they have provided is essential in looking after our residents, and highlights how important volunteering is within our city, as well as across the country. The resilience of their work force is inspiring, and I’d like to thank everyone involved with this brilliant charity for all their hard work

Hertfordshire Constabulary Chief Constable Charlie Hall said: Our emergency service colleagues at St John Ambulance play a vital role in helping to keep the public safe and this event is a great way of showing our gratitude and saying thank you.

I have no doubt that the past year must have been incredibly tough on the volunteers as they coped with the demands of a deadly pandemic. Our officers regularly work together with St John Ambulance volunteers and on their behalf, I would like to say a big thank you for all the help you give us. Blue, green or red, we are all part of the emergency services family with the aim of improving public safety. I hope that our police buildings lit up and shining green is a visible reminder of our support.

Cllr Chris Amos said We lit up green as a Thank you for all that St John’s Ambulance service does for the residents of Tendring and beyond

Liquid PR  turned all their comms green in support of St John Ambulance. Hollie  Jones, Account Director saidBeing part of St John Ambulance is like being a past of a huge family. I feel unbelievably proud to wear my uniform and represent St John. I enjoy being able to meet, talk and help so many people and I  have learnt many practical skills that can really make a difference. I loved being a part of the country’s efforts against COVID-19 and doing my bit to help