IF your only image of the St John Ambulance is someone in black uniform tending the sick and injured at galas and open days, then it's time to think again.

There's a lot more to the organisation these days - you might even have something to offer. So says county co-ordinator Sandra Ronson who is supporting a recruitment drive for more volunteers.

"Basically, we want people to bring their skills to us. You don't have to be trained as a carer or first aider," she explained. "We need people with secretarial skills, vehicle ability, people who can make the tea, just anyone who wants to be involved in the group. Everybody has a contribution they can make.

"A lot of people are put off by the uniform but you can still play a part without wearing it."

First aid duties are, of course, the main arm of the organisation and anyone who wants to go down that road can pick up some invaluable skills.

But St John Ambulance volunteers also offer care in the community, provide companionship, even walk people's dogs.

Whatever you do, it gives you a great feeling of satisfaction according to Sandra who joined more than 30 years ago as a forerunner to a career in nursing.

"St John were always there for me," she said. "They made me believe that if I wanted it enough I would get there in the end. I took my first exam with the organisation, my home nursing exam, soon after I joined at the age of 11.

"I am now a qualified first aid and care skills trainer. In short I owe St John Ambulance an enormous debt of gratitude. You get a lot back from voluntary work because we all have a basic need to be useful. There is a great family atmosphere, you almost become part of an extended family."

St John Ambulance has groups in towns all over the Fylde Coast and children as young as six can join.

To find out more call the hotline on (0870) 1290 900.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.