MALVERN Hills District Council is funding a programme of free community essential first aid courses, which will be delivered by members of St John Ambulance.

The essential first aid course is offered to members of the public who want to know what action to take in any emergency and want to learn how to deal with accidents and injuries.

This course deals with serious conditions and incidents involving a casualty of any age.

The courses will take place on Friday, October 31, from 10am to 1pm, at Council House, Malvern, on Saturday, November 15, 11am to 2pm, at Malvern Vale Community Centre, Malvern, on Tuesday, November 18, 10am until 1pm, at Upton Hill Centre, Upton and on Wednesday, November 26 from 10am to 1pm, at Tenbury Pump Rooms, Tenbury.

Councillor Hannah Campbell, assistant portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, said: "These free first aid courses will look at the five main ways to save a life, including choking, CPR and severe bleeding.

"Those attending will walk away with the skills and knowledge that could make the difference between a life lost and a life saved."

To be eligible for this free course, residents must live or work within the Malvern Hills district.

If you would like to enrol onto a course please contact Melanie Whistance, Malvern Hills Health Improvement Co-ordinator, on 01684 862283 or by emailing melanie.whistance@malvernhills.gov.uk.