A GROUP of students from Exeter University will be cycling from Devon to Bristol this weekend to raise funds for a specialist unit of life-saving first aiders.
Twenty cyclists, 15 of whom are members of the Exeter University LINKS – the campus's St John Ambulance division – will tackle the 80-mile journey through three counties from the charity's Devon headquarters at the Matford Business Park to the Avon headquarters in Bedminster, Bristol, on Saturday.
They are aiming to raise £2,500 so the Devon branch of St John Ambulance can buy two specially equipped bicycles to launch its Cycle Response Unit.
A St John Ambulance spokesperson said: “Cycle Responders are a valuable addition to the St John Ambulance team of first aiders who usually operate in ambulances or on foot.
“The riders can tackle special duties including those where isolated locations would make it hard for land ambulances to reach casualties or they can also reach other first aid emergencies at events quicker than volunteers on foot.
“The customised mountain bikes have the necessary suspension, gearing and tyres needed for the riders to operate comfortably and safely throughout their duty.
“Medical gases are carried in panniers on the bikes along with an Automated External Defibrillator, minor treatment kits, information leaflets for specific injuries and further advice, neck braces, slings and other vital equipment that would normally be carried by a first response vehicle.”
To support the cyclists go to www.justgiving.com/Exeter-LINKS.
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