Martin Proudlove-Gains has qualified as Guernsey’s first motorcycle volunteer community first responder withThe St John Ambulance and Rescue Service.

The 12 week “First Person On Scene” (FPOS) training course, which Mr Proudlove-Gains completed in March, qualifies him to be a first responder to emergency incidents. His role includes making initial assessments of immediately life threatening emergency situations and early intervention as well as continued support once the ambulance crew arrives.

Mr Proudlove-Gains is also a Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) advanced motorcycle instructor with over ten years’ experience instructing in Guernsey. His personal motorbike has been equipped with an automated external defibrillator and a first response kit.

Mr Proudlove-Gains works part time in the St John Health Care shop and also volunteers as a member of the Ambulance Reserve with the St John Ambulance and Rescue Service.

Mr Proudlove-Gains said: “It is a fulfilling experience to arrive at a scene and be the first to offer assistance and assurance to the patient. The motorbike has a green light fitted which enables me to pass through the traffic more efficiently in a way that is not always possible in a car.

“As a volunteer community first responder I will receive a text alert on my mobile phone informing me of the location of an incident. If I’m available and in the vicinity I will respond to deliver basic life support and defibrillation prior to the arrival of an ambulance.

“I’ve been a motorcycle instructor for over ten years and it’s great to be able to transfer those skills to my work at St John.”

Jon Beausire, chief officer of The St John Ambulance and Rescue Service, said: “There are certain emergency scenes that may not be accessible immediately by a car or ambulance. Martin’s depth of practical knowledge and experience enhances the service that St John provides by ensuring that we get first aid to patients as safely and promptly as possible.

“Our ultimate aim is always to be the difference between a life lost and a life saved and we are committed to the continued development of our staff which enables us to achieve this.”