THE BRITISH Red Cross is inviting people from across Cornwall to attend a first aid training course in Truro to learn simple skills which could make all the difference if an emergency happened on their doorstep.

The training course, at the Truro Wellbeing Centre in Boscawen Street, takes just two hours and will give participants the knowledge and confidence to become lifesavers if a colleague, friend or family member falls ill or is injured, and they are called upon to help.

The course covers common first aid scenarios including what to do if someone is choking, unconscious or bleeding, and how to treat a burn or fracture. It will also help participants spot the warning signs of a heart attack or stroke, and give them the tools to step in and act.

Charlet Treloar, community-based first aid co-ordinator in Cornwall, said: "This is an open course available to individuals, and is an opportunity for people to learn some very simple first aid techniques in just two hours. The idea is to make it accessible so people go away with the basic lifesaving skills we all need in our daily lives, and the confidence to put them into practice."

The course takes place between 10am and noon on February 21 and costs £15. To book a place call Jane Mclaughan on 01392 353284 or e-mail jmclaughlan@redcross.org.uk