Alton St John Ambulance celebrates 100 years of service

Volunteers, former members and representatives of local organisations came together to celebrate a century of service by Alton St John Ambulance.

The centenary event at the Alton Maltings Centre marked 100 years of supporting the local community through first aid, education and volunteering.

Guests enjoyed a presentation exploring the unit's history alongside a display of photographs and historical and current equipment highlighting how the organisation has evolved over the past century.

A centenary certificate was presented to the unit by Fizz Thompson, county commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

County president Iain Steele joined volunteers in cutting a cake to commemorate the milestone.

The occasion provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of past generations of volunteers and recognise the important role the organisation continues to play today.

Valerie Spencer, the network training lead for the Central Hampshire Network, said: "There have been many changes over the years, both in the organisation and in Alton itself, resulting in variations of the type of events we provide first aid cover at.

“I remember long days at Alton Show, and cold nights at Bass fireworks, as well as the organised chaos of Alton Carnival. However, my memories are very much about the people I have met at community events and the friends I have made."

Fizz Thompson said: “It was a privilege to join the volunteers on October 17, and congratulations to St John Ambulance Alton Division on reaching the remarkable milestone of your 100th anniversary.

“Thank you to all the dedicated volunteers, past and present, whose commitment, compassion and service have supported the local community for a century."

As part of the Central Hampshire Network, volunteers in Alton work closely with teams in Andover and Winchester to provide first aid support across the region.

So far this year local members have provided first aid cover at more than 40 events and contributed almost 600 volunteer hours.

Volunteers have helped raise awareness and taught lifesaving first aid skills to members of the public, youth organisations and community groups across Alton and the surrounding villages. They meet every Monday evening to participate in training courses and network activities.

The unit was established on June 24, 1926 - St John's Day - as the St John Ambulance Alton and District Division.

It was initially for men, with members undertaking road patrols to assist at accidents and providing first aid cover at local events, including regular duties at the Alton Picture Palace.

A cadet division for boys aged 11 to 16 was formed in 1936, followed by a nursing division for women in 1938.

As men and women trained and volunteered together in the 1950s, the unit was renamed the Alton Ambulance and Nursing Division. In 1981 the cadet units were incorporated to create the Alton Quadrilateral Division.

A permanent headquarters was opened in Anstey Park in 1992 after years of operating from various locations.

Today Alton St John Ambulance continues to provide first aid cover, health education and volunteering opportunities to build on a legacy of service spanning a century.