Half of marine ambulance fundraising target hit

Half of the fundraising target for refitting Guernsey's marine ambulance has been hit after a fortnight.

Donations to the appeal for the second phase of works on Flying Christine III have reached £10,000 - half of its £20,000 target.

Work on the vessel was already under way in the Isle of Wight and included upgrading navigation and communication equipment and updating the clinical treatment area, managers said.

Guernsey St John Ambulance and Rescue Service (GSJARS) said the marine ambulance was due to return to service in the spring, providing pre-hospital paramedic care for the islands.

GSJARS chief executive officer Mark Mapp said: "Every single donation makes a difference and is hugely appreciated.

"Without these funds, we simply wouldn't be able to safely deliver the high standard of care that our communities rely on."

Professional services firm Ogier has donated £2,000.

Ogier partner Martyn Baudains said: "The Flying Christine is a vital resource, delivering pre-hospital paramedic care and emergency transport for patients across the islands.

"We hope that Guernsey's community will rally together to help Ambulance and Rescue raise the necessary funds for the refurbishment of the Flying Christine III."

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