THE emergency services have been under unprecedented pressure over the past two and half years.
With the country battling a pandemic and the entire population suffering the rigours of lockdown restrictions the thought of an emergency brought fear to many.
Thankfully the residents of Rhayader in Powys had the St John Ambulance to support them in their times of need.
The community has now made their gratitude known with their nominations leading to the St John Ambulance First Responders being crowned Emergency Hero of the Year in the Powys Community Heroes Awards 2022.
Rhayader's St John Ambulance crew.
The service often took on the place and role of the Welsh Ambulance Service in taking on an emergency role in the community.
A spokesman confirmed the challenges met by the group during the pandemic, saying: "We responded to 570 calls on behalf of the Welsh Ambulance Service responding to calls in Rhayader and the surrounding area.
"We operate 24/7 with a crew of eight on a retained basis."
Richard Mckeand nominated the Rhayader First Responders for the award.
He said: "The first responders in Rhayader are all volunteers.
"In 2021they responded to over 570, emergency 999 calls on behalf of the Welsh Ambulance Service.
"They have literally saved numerous lives which would otherwise have been lost in and around the Rhayader and wider area.
"The dedication of these volunteers who provide this service 24 hours a day, every day of the year, should be recognised."
DC Autos (Newtown) Ltd, sponsors of the Emergency Hero Award
D C Autos (Newtown) Ltd are so proud to be asked to sponsor The Emergency Hero Award at the Powys County Times Community Hero Awards, giving those who have gone above and beyond the chance to be acknowledged by their community.
Emergency Workers do a fantastic job in normal times but during a panademic they all gave that bit extra while trying to keep themselves and their family’s safe.
D C Autos who is based on the Mochdre Industrial Estate in Newtown is a vehicle repair garage for cars and motorcycles. We deliver all services and MOTs for all vehicles and also do motorcycle sales. D C Autos have been serving the community since 2010 and we are grateful for all the support we have received off the local community and business during the panademic and is now our time to pay back this support by sponsoring this award.
We would like to wish everyone nominated the best of luck.
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