Rescue team carries off builder's grant aid

Members of a volunteer search and rescue team have been handed £1,000 to help fund vital kit for their state of the art stretcher.

The Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team Plymouth has been handed the cash through Persimmon Homes Cornwall’s Community Champions scheme.

Volunteer Simon Applebee explained: “We seek to provide the best service and are continually training with the latest lifesaving equipment.

“We have recently invested £2,000 in a specialist stretcher, but we need to invest more in providing key accessories, including wheels and carry handles, that will aid quick casualty extraction and improve comfort of patients.

“As the team receives almost all of its funding through donations and fundraising the significant support from the Community Champions scheme will allow us to purchase the kit and put it straight into use.”

Dan Heathcote, director in charge for Persimmon Homes Cornwall, said: “We are extremely proud of our Community Champions scheme. It’s terrific to be able to support groups and charities across the region with thousands of pounds every year.

“The work these volunteers do assisting the emergency services with search and rescue is invaluable. We are glad we are able to support them by donating the funds for the extra kit, and also that it will make patients’ experiences a little more comfortable.”

The Persimmon Homes Community Champions initiative invites groups and charities who have already worked hard to raise money themselves to apply for match-funding of up to £1,000. Persimmon Homes Cornwall has two awards of up to £1,000 each available every month.

To find out more or to submit a bid, visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity