A group of publicans and licensed premises staff from venues across Felixstowe have picked up some potentially lifesaving skills thanks to training funded by East Suffolk Community Safety Partnership (CSP).

Funding for up to 24 places on a first aid training course was provided by East Suffolk CSP for members of the Felixstowe Nightsafe network.

The Felixstowe Nightsafe network was formed in 2002 by local licensees, supported by Suffolk Constabulary and the CSP, with the aim of working together to prevent and reduce disorder around local licensed premises.

The dedication of local licensees has previously been commended for helping to make the town a safer place with a co-ordinated approach to identifying and preventing potential problems.

East Suffolk CSP was established to help improve the quality of life of people living in the district by promoting safe and healthy communities, with the co-operation of the police, district and county councils, probation, fire and rescue service, and public health.

In total, 23 members of the Felixstowe Nightsafe network took part in first aid training over two days at The Grand bar and nightclub.

Mark Jepson ESCSP

Mark Jepson, East Suffolk Council's Deputy Cabinet Member responsible for Community Safety, and Felixstowe Town Council's representative in the Nightsafe network, said: "I am delighted that East Suffolk CSP is funding first aid training for staff operating under Felixstowe Nightsafe.

"We want to create an enjoyable and safe environment for people visiting our pubs and club in Felixstowe. On occasions, people can become too intoxicated, or may just feel unwell, and it is reassuring that staff will be better equipped to help those who need some initial first aid.

"I believe our Felixstowe licensed premises are well run – and this additional training enforces that professional service you can expect from them."