St John Ambulance is holding a free open event at its Truro centre, on December 2, to support local businesses, and places can be reserved now.

The first aid charity opened its new building in Heron Way in May this year and has already seen bookings on its training courses increase by almost 25 per cent.

To celebrate that success and commemorate 100 years of St John Ambulance in Truro, everyone who attends the event will be entered into a free prize draw to win £100 of training for their business.

Workplace training regional director, John Cavanagh said: "We’re absolutely delighted with the way our new training centre is giving more people in Cornwall skills that could make them the difference between a life lost and a life saved.

"This open day is our way of saying thank you to local businesses for their support and welcoming new customers, as we celebrate our centenary in this amazing city."

Everyone who attends will receive a free first aid kit worth £10 and lunch, along with two-for-one discount vouchers for selected courses. They will have the chance to quiz expert trainers on first aid, plus health and safety legislation, including an update on the latest guidelines from the Health and Safety Executive. Live defibrillator demonstrations will also offer the chance for business people to get hands-on and try using one of these life saving pieces of equipment.

"We aim to make it straightforward for businesses to meet their regulatory first aid, fire safety and health and safety obligations," added John. "The bottom line is, if you’re working with St John Ambulance to train your first aiders and equip your workplaces, you can be sure that you’re getting the right training to meet your legal obligations.

"You’re also supporting the nation’s leading first aid charity and helping us build a nation of first aiders. All surplus income from the workplace training booked and supplies bought helps to fund our vital work, teaching people first aid through advice and training, and campaigning to educate people about the importance of first aid."

The open event is at Unit D, Cedar View, Heron Way, Newham Industrial Estate from noon until 2pm on December 2. Free places can be booked by emailing helen.curran@sja.org.uk or calling 07973 206 908.

For additional information on St John Ambulance’s work and to book training courses, visit www.sja.org.uk/training or call 0844 770 4800.