Helston St John Ambulance has launched a major fundraising drive in a bid to raise £150,000 before the end of the year.

The money is needed to allow the division to upgrade its current headquarters in Wendron Street to provide a new reception area and disabled facilities to comply with legislation due to come into force later this year.

The brigade is also seeking funding towards plans to build a new garage to house an ambulance meeting new EU regulations.

The lack of such a vehicle, and somewhere to accommodate it, has forced the division to suspend its ambulance transport service, which members are keen to reinstate.

A site for the garage has been found and planning permission secured, but work cannot begin until funding is found.

The division is planning a number of money-spinning events and activities over the course of the year, but any help would be greatly appreciated.

Meanwhile, Helston St John continues to offer commercial first aid courses at its Wendron Street headquarters.

An "appointed person emergency aid" course is due to take place on Wednesday, February 25, a two-day "first aid at work re-qualification" on March 1 and 2 and a full four-day "first aid at work" course from April 20 to 23.

Other courses can be arranged provided enough interest is shown and it is hoped local businesses will support the sessions on offer.

Further information is available from Phyllis White on 01326 564690.