A crucial Island service today received a donation from schoolchildren in recognition of the part it plays in helping to keep them safe.
 
Pupils at Scoill Vallajeelt dressed down for the final day of their half-term to raise money for St John Ambulance Isle of Man.
 
Headteacher Adrian Shorthouse said: ‘We wanted to raise children’s awareness of the vital work St John Ambulance volunteers do to support schools in the Island and show our appreciation. The service often provides schools like Vallajeelt with first aid training and also a presence at events which could not take place without St John Ambulance volunteers’ support.’
 
Phil Bennett, Corps Superintendent and Commercial Development Officer for St John Ambulance IoM, and Helen Bennett, Schools’ Liaison Officer, attended the school’s ‘Success Assembly’ today to receive a £200 donation from the children towards the charity’s work.
 
Phil said: ‘We rely heavily on donations, as well as our commercial training, to fund our work delivering community first aid awareness, providing cover at events and running our life-saving Community First Responders.
 
‘Schools have many worthy charities to choose from and it is lovely that Scoill Vallajeelt has selected us to benefit from its latest dress down day.’
 
For further information about St John Ambulance Isle of Man or to find out how to sign up for first aid courses, volunteer or support its work via donations, ring 01624 674387 or visit www.sja.org.uk/sja/counties/isle-of-man.aspx
 
Photo caption - Phill Bennett and Helen Bennett from St John Ambulance IoM receiving a cheque for £200 from Graeme Ver Elst and Freya Skillicorn pupils at Scoill Vallajeelt.