A MOBILE first aid unit that will help to save lives in Devon will get its official seal of approval next weekend.

The mobile treatment centre used by St John Ambulance Okehampton division will be officially unveiled at a ceremony in the town on October 28.

The centre was funded by donations to the charity's division. It is fully kitted out as a first aid post, containing all the vital equipment needed to treat a range of medical emergencies.

It will be used at public events in Devon and the Okehampton area, where St John Ambulance volunteers provide first aid cover for events including the Okehampton and Chagford agricultural shows, Dartmoor Folk Festival, Chagstock, Okehampton rugby matches and local carnivals.

Dot Kaines from St John Ambulance Okehampton, said: 'Volunteers are very busy in the Okehampton area, providing first aid cover at many well loved events. The mobile unit allows us to provide a greater level of treatment on-site.

'There is still a great demand for the work of St John Ambulance — up to 140,000 people a year die in situations where first aid could have saved them.

'But fewer than one in five of us know the basic skills that can the difference between a life lost and a life saved.

'The treatment unit has already been used several times and is already proving its worth.'

The unit can be seen at Fairplace Church at 3pm on Sunday.

To book St John Ambulance first aid volunteers for your event or for more information on the charity's work, visit http://www.sja.org.uk/devon">www.sja.org.uk/devon or call 01392 824445.