New first aid training centre opened in Borough High Street

The new centre is located at Alpha House on the corner of Borough High Street and Union Street.

Simon Hughes MP performed the official opening earlier this month and received a mini first aid lesson.

The Bermondsey & Old Southwark MP and minister of state for justice was shown how to use a defibrillator and perform CPR.

During the visit Mr Hughes promised to make enquiries about the provision of defibrillators in court buildings around the country.

He also met Alex Copley who recently used her life saving skills on the tube after a man fell unconscious following a seizure.

"This new training venue will make a real impact in an area with growing numbers of people and businesses," said Simon Hughes MP.

"A local base for St John Ambulance is great news for local businesses and the community in south east London.

"Many more people will now have the opportunity to learn life saving skills on their doorstep."

The training centre offers companies the opportunity to train over 200 staff a week in its brand new training rooms. At SJA essential first aid courses, people can learn what to do if someone is choking, unconscious or not breathing, learning skills including CPR.

In addition to its corporate clients the centre will also offer first aid courses to the local community, with the next one planned for Saturday 5 July.

Regional training manager Guy Hillman said: "We've been delighted to see a big increase in demand for first aid training from London businesses over the last 12 months."

"The new venue at London Bridge is in an excellent location, very close to a key transport hub and many businesses.

"We're confident local firms will see this as a real benefit, with their staff having to take less time out of their busy work schedules to learn essential first aid.

"Being equipped with these vital skills can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved."

• To find out more about the London Bridge training courses or to book a place call 0844 324 5535 or visit www.sja.org.uk