ST. JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20811, 23 May 1939, Page 9

ST. JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE

(To the Editor) Sir,—l would like to say a few words on behalf of one of the finest organisations in Hamilton. 1 refer to the St. John Ambulance Brigade. As a keen follower of sport of aJJ kinds, it often occurs to me, where wuuld we be if our “Z&mbuks” were not available? The boyg in black and white are such a familiar sight that hundreds take them as a matter of course; but how many stop to think that these men give* their services entirely iree, often at considerable inconvenience to themselves and their families? No matter what the weather, you wfill invariably find the “First-aider” at his post, ever ready to give expert attention to the injured. Who knows but when any one of us may need first aid treatment as a result of an accident? I venture to say it would be a serious state of affairs if this wonderful service were not always at our disposal. The point I want to make J* that this organisation is entirely dependent upon donations from the various sports bodies for funds to carry on the good work. It has been brought to my notice that quite a number of fully qualified men do not feel disposed to go on duty. In fact some flatly refuse to do so, and I don’t blame them, simply because there are no overcoats or uniforms available and the funds of the Division are at such a low ebb that they are unable to purchase any. I believe it is several years sinoe any new uniforms were purchased. Now I think this is a disgraceful state of affairs for a tov’n the size of Hamilton, and 1 feel sure that if the true position was brought to the notice of some of our prominent business men, particularly those who are keen spoilsmen, the matter would be rectified in a very short time.—l am, etc., FOOTBALLER. Hamilton, May 20.