SIX Barnsley town centre wardens have linked up with Yorkshire Ambulance Service to train as community first responders.

The training will ensure they are able to provide vital care, comfort and reassurance in medical emergencies before an ambulance arrives on scene.

The two-day CFR training course, run by Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, included cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), operating a defibrillator, administering oxygen and assessing a patient’s condition to decide whether an ambulance is required.

The wardens will respond on foot and attend patients who become ill within their patrolling vicinity.

This is in addition to their core role of patrolling the town centre to offer advice and support to those who need it, help to reduce low-level crime, environmental offences, and antisocial behaviour.

Coun Wendy Cain, cabinet spokesperson for public health and communities, said: “The safety and wellbeing of those visiting and working in our town centre is a priority, and our wardens are now in an ideal position to offer immediate assistance in an emergency situation.

“We’re dedicated to making sure our town centre remains a thriving, vibrant destination.

“Our wardens already do a fantastic job of keeping our town centre safe and welcoming for everyone, and we’re pleased to be able to work with Yorkshire Ambulance Service so that the team is equipped with life-saving skills to support in an emergency.”