TOP first-aiders in Lytham St Annes have pipped more than 30 divisions to the post to be named the best in Lancashire.

St Johns Ambulance Cadets in Lytham were awarded the prestigious Handly Shield jointly with the Morecambe Lonsdale branch late last year.

County Commissioner Mrs Audrey McLennan spoke of the excellent team work and enthusiasm of both groups and the impossibilty of choosing between the two.

Both divisions were given £200 prize money and will hold the shield for six months each.

The awards were presented at the charity's annual County conference held at the Fernlea Hotel in St Annes which was attended by 140 volunteers from the county.

Pictured is St John Ambulance County Commissioner Audrey McLennan presenting the shield to Superintendent Julie Whittake, watched by cadets Stacie Cartmell, Stephanie Cartmell and Sarah Snell.