Volunteers march at Pride London

Members of St John Ambulance were proud to be amongst the thousands who took part in this year’s Pride London Parade - as well as being the providers of first aid for the day.

Over 20 St John Ambulance members from all over the UK took part in the central London procession on Saturday, while many more volunteers provided first aid support.

Following the organisation’s first ever entry last year, a team of St John Ambulance members decided it would ensure an even more impressive inclusion in the 2009 parade. A motorcycle, response car and a crusader ambulance all took part in the parade alongside those members on foot.

Andy Wapling, Deputy Assistant Commissioner (Logistics) said: ‘The St John entry was received exceptionally well by the public. They all gave a huge cheer as we moved through the streets and made us all very proud to be members of the organisation.

‘This was a fantastic opportunity for us to proudly represent the organisation and we were able to show the true diversity and equality that St John Ambulance offers.’

The procession took two hours to wind its way down Baker Street, Oxford Street and Regent Street, and past Trafalgar Square. The parade was supported by many thousands of spectators who filled the streets to watch this display, show their support and join in with the fun.

In addition to joining the parade, over 100 St John Ambulance members staffed five treatment centres, seven ambulances and four cycle response units to ensure first aid was available to all who turned out to enjoy the day, with volunteers treating over 80 casualties and transporting 30 to hospital for further treatment.

Andy Wapling continued: ‘We are proud to be the official first aid provider for Pride London. In a first aid capacity, the parade presents a very busy time for our organisation, with thousands of people turning out to enjoy the procession and join in the festivities.

‘Our experience gained over the years has helped us develop a vast knowledge of how best to cover this event, ensuring the safety of each and every person who turns out to enjoy the day.’

St John Ambulance was voted the UK’s best ambulance service in The Pink Paper’s 2009 Awards recently.