HAVING a trained life saver in every Furness home was the noble aspiration of a medical volunteer back in 1986.

The Mail, on July 17, noted: "St John Ambulance aims to have a first aider not only in every street, but in every home.

"And the importance of the aim was stressed by the Barrow centre chairman David Reid at the association's annual meeting.

"He said it was the aim of the centre to have someone proficient in first aid in every household.

"The aim was applauded by the association's county director and police Chief Constable Barry Price, particularly the plan to raise the potential numbers to be attracted into first aid.

"And he congratulated members' efforts to make sure as many children and young people as possible had basic first aid training."

Mr Reid said: "A large proportion of accidents happen in the home, especially among children."

In June 1992 a special celebration was held at the Forum in Barrow to mark the 70th anniversary for St John Ambulance cadets.

Among those helping to wish the cadets a happy birthday were Barrow mayor Cllr Joyce Fleet, the county commander, John Dixon; thedivisional superintendent for cadets, Irene Rea and divisional officer for cadets, Keith Martindale.

In 1993 the St John Ambulance Association held its county championships at Barrow.

The Mail, on March 9, noted: "The competition, at Alfred Barrow School, attracted more than 60 entrants and 20 teams.

"County commissioner John Dixon said teams were tested on all skills, including dressings and quizzes.

"Winners included Ulverston boys Mark Sanders and Graeme Jackson.

"They clinched both the badgers's first aid and questions heat.

"Barrow girls Claire Gaydon, Leanne Warwick, Sarah Briars and Lynne Schofield won the cadet quiz."

The Mail, on January 15 in 1990 recorded the donation of a £25,000 specially-equipped ambulance to be based at the St John county headquarters in Barrow.

It was the gift of food firm Heinz and was handed over by the director of personnel Paul Williams to Cumbria St John Ambulance commander Dr Geoffrey Stitt.

The new vehicle would be used at outdoor events throughout the county.

In May the same year, the Barrow brigade got its own mobile first aid unit to replace an out-of-date caravan.

The vehicle was dedicated at a ceremony the the headquarters in The Strand.

It also provided an opportunity for a £2,500 cheque to handed over for medical equipment from the Furness Lions.