A FIRST aid training course which aims to teach Herefordshire residents five ways to save a life is being held next week.

St John Ambulance is holding a three-hour training course from 7pm to 10pm next Tuesday, December 8.

The 'Essential First Aid All Ages' session will demonstrate the five main ways to save a life, including treating an unconscious casualty, resuscitating someone who has stopped breathing using CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) and dealing with choking, chest pain and severe bleeding.

The course teaches techniques used for adult, children and babies and is open to anyone aged 12 upwards, although under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

Emma Elgerton, community training co-ordinator for St John Ambulance in the West Midlands, said: "We’re on a mission to ensure that nobody dies needlessly because they needed first aid and didn’t get it.

"That’s why we want to get as many local people as possible learning the skills needed to save a life. Nobody knows when or where they could be faced with a life or death situation – it could be in the home, the workplace, in the local park or on the street.

"Our first aid training gives people the skills and confidence to cope with any medical emergency wherever it happens.’

Places on the course cost £30 and booking is essential. To find out more information or to book a place, telephone 01212 373879 or email west-mids-training@sja.org.uk.