YOUNG people in the north of the Island have been invited to join a new combined Badger and Cadet division of the St John Ambulance in Ramsey.

An open evening is being held on Friday, February 18, between 6pm and 8pm at the Air Cadet Force unit at Auldyn School on Gladstone Road.

New recruits can meet other Badgers, Cadets and leaders and try their hand at a number of basic first aid procedures including bandaging and CPR.

Bill Castelow, assistant principal youth officer with St John Ambulance, said: "If you're between five and 10 years old you can join Badgers, learn first aid and have fun. And when you reach 10 you can move on to become a Cadet. You'll get the best first aid training and a wide choice of other activities. You'll never be stuck for something to do."

Many young Badgers and Cadets go on to be full adult members of St John Ambulance and provide vital cover at events ranging from the TT and Manx Grand Prix races, Tynwald Day, agricultural shows and community events.

The Ramsey division is the sixth for young people in the Island. It will meet on Friday evenings at the Air Cadet Force unit at Auldyn School.