MP supports Henfield Responders’ challenge

Eight HART volunteers and supporters are preparing to climb to the peaks of Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scafell Pike in a period of just 24 hours. Sponsorship from their efforts will support the purchase of vital new lifesaving equipment.

The Responders receive no public funding and raise funds for their equipment themselves. Thanks to local sponsorship Henfield team have been able to buy a number of defribillators which are located at key points around the village.

Local business sponsors include solicitors Griffith Smith Farrington Webb, The White Hart and South Down Truck and Crane.

Mr Herbert is a strong supporter of First Responder volunteers and was happy to sponsor HART for their challenge when he met the group last month. The climbers told the MP that they had been training hard on the South Downs.

Other First Responders in the Arundel & South Downs constituency include groups in Partridge Green, Storrington and Steyning.

Mr Herbert said: “I wish the Henfield First Responders the best of luck with their Three Peaks challenge. The First Responders provide a life-saving contribution to our villages, and really deserve our support.

“They’re a great example of the voluntary groups that keep our villages going. Last week was the 30th anniversary of Volunteers’ Week and according to the National Council for Voluntary Organisations there are over 450 registered voluntary organisations in my Arundel and South Downs constituency alone.

“Sponsoring the First Responders is just one way to recognise what all these local heroes do for our communities.”

Members of the public can donate to the Henfield Area Response Team by going onto their website at www.henfieldresponders.org.uk and clicking on the ‘donate’ button.

Report and picture contributed by The Rt Hon Nick Herbert MP.