Rudolph Run Edge Hill University 2011

Rudolph Run Edge Hill University 2011, a set on Flickr.

Despite the chilly wind and cold wet drizzle, local runners, youngsters and adults came to the Rudolph Run and dashed around the track at Sporting Edge at Edge Hill University last Sunday 11th December 2011.

The runners, many in fancy dress and sporting reindeer antlers, braved the weather and proved themsleves hardy souls as they ran to raise money for the charities supported by Sue Murrin-Bailey, Mayoress of West Lancashire. Earlier, during the build up to the event Sue said: “This race is the perfect start to Christmas and is sure to be a hit with families and experienced runners. Not only is it going to be a festive and fun day out, but it’s also raising money for two fantastic local charities (West Lancs Womens’ Refuge and Community First Responders)

West Lancs Women's Refuge a registered charitable organisation, which provides a refuge for women and their children who have been victims of domestic violence.  We have been open since 1988, and have helped many hundreds of women and their children through the different services that the organisation has to offer. These include, Refuge accommodation, a 24hr Free-phone confidential Helpline, Floating Support Service, Information Centre, Counselling service and weekly coffee mornings/support groups.

Community First Responder volunteers are trained to attend emergency calls received by the ambulance service and provide care until the ambulance arrives.  Volunteers can arrive at an emergency scene in a matter of minutes, as they are sent to calls in their local area.  The schemes operate as a community partnership between St John Ambulance and local ambulance service trusts. Having someone in the community who has been trained in first aid and can reach the patient quickly makes all the difference.  SJA has been working hard across many counties to establish a close working partnership with NHS Ambulance Service Trusts in maintaining existing CFR units and establishing new units to fulfil this very worthwhile role.