LIFESAVING volunteers who respond to emergencies now have their own car to help them race through traffic.

The Canvey First Responders have praised members of the community for their support after taking delivery of their brand new Citroen C3. The vehicle comes complete with branding showing other motorists it belongs to the group.

The responders previously had to use their own vehicles to attend call-outs. They are often first on the scene of an emergency while they wait for paramedics to arrive.

The new car, which is currently on a two year lease, had a personalised number plate. It was donated by Teresa Crosland, one of the volunteers, whose Father Ken Podd died recently.

The group provides emergency first aid care in cases of cardiac arrest, strokes and breathing problems before an ambulance arrived.

Mick Allwood, co-ordinator of the responders, said the arrival of the car brings to a close a five year plan to better equip the service.

Mr Allwood also expressed his gratitude at the support the group received from members of the Canvey Community.

He said: “We are absolutely delighted with this. we had a five year plan to bring in new additions such as the car and also the public access defibrillators.

“We started that in January 2015, so we have finished well ahead of plans.”

“It is not designed to make us more visible on the roads, but obviously if drivers show us courtesy and let us through when we are on call, then we would be very grateful.

“We’ve had a radio fitted and the Peter Daintree charity has kindly donated a satnav for us. We will be working out if we need to add anything else.

“It just makes us look more professional and helps us respond to emergencies better.

Lee Umpleby, senior paramedic with the East of England Ambulance Service said: “We like to thank Les Sparrow from Lab UK Limited who has kindly donated a funded fuel card.

“Rod Hall and Chris Sparrow from Design 4 Print who have sponsored the fantastic livery wrap.

“The group are very excited about utilising the new vehicle. This is a great addition and will obviously secure great flexibility and reliability to our service to the community. And of course we will continue to make our presence known to the local community that support us in our work.”

In June, the responders urged motorists to be more considerate when they are seen driving around. A statement read: “We go to severe life and death situations, but we don’t have blue lights and sirens. We have to drive according to the Highway Code like everyone else.”