COOL hands in distressing situations are needed in the group of new St John’s Ambulance recruits being picked by the charity.

First aid volunteers are needed in Chippenham, Corsham, Melksham and Pewsey to help the team during events over the summer months.

All recruits need is the passion to learn something new and the drive to help people when they are in need.

“No previous training is required, it will all be provided, we just look for a desire to help people and the readiness to deal with situations that can be distressing,” said St John Ambulance area manager Shirley Cox.

“Our event first aiders are trained to a high standard to provide treatment to patients at concerts, sports events etc at local, regional and national levels.

“First aid is such a simple skill, but it has an incredible impact.

“We want everyone to learn it, so that they can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved.”

The charity cover a wide range of events including sports events, music festivals, village fetes and even the London Marathon.

As well as giving emergency first aid, volunteers often get stuck in helping the community in other ways.

When the snow blocked off many rural villages in March, St John's volunteers jumped in their cars to help motorists and vulnerable people get home safely.

Other tasks include fundraising and giving the public first aid demonstrations at popular events.

The St John Ambulance groups meet weekly, on the following days and times:

• Chippenham – Thursdays, 7.45pm to 9pm

• Corsham – Mondays, 8pm to 10pm

• Melksham – Tuesdays, 8.15pm to 10pm

• Pewsey – Mondays, 7.30pm to 9pm

Applications to volunteer in Wiltshire can be made online (http://www.sja.org.uk/sja/volunteer/the-role-for-you/volunteer-vacancies---new/vacancy-details.aspx?Id=72114)