A PARAMEDIC with almost 20 years' experience has been appointed as a resuscitation trainer - and is offering his services and knowledge for free.

Michael Raw, who works for Tees, East and North Yorkshire Ambulance Service, is also an active member of the Teesside Health Action Zone (HAZ) aimed at improving the health of people on Teesside, which is one of the unhealthiest places in the country.

Michael, 38, says he is looking forward to his new challenge of training as many members of the public as he can in resuscitation skills, which he believes are essential.

He said: "The knowledge and skills of today's ambulance crews is outstanding, as is the range of equipment we carry. This enables us to deal with all types of emergencies, but, when breathing stops, remedial action works like the links of a chain, and the weakest link is the time between the emergency and the treatment starting.

"It is frustrating to arrive at an incident to find people have done nothing. Resuscitation is simple, easy to learn and easy to do.

"I know my knowledge and expertise can give people those skills and the confidence to use them when facing an emergency. A training session with me, as part of the HAZ programme, is simple, enjoyable, takes up little time, is free and can save the life of your loved one."

To arrange a group training session contact Michael on 07879 446938.