First Aid

I spotted this structure in the village of Slaidburn and was intrigued as to its purpose. The sign says 'St John Ambulance'. After asking around the answer is that it is a St John’s Ambulance box. This once stored first aid equipment including a stretcher. This box was placed there way back by the Clitheroe St John Ambulance - Slaidburn being a very isolated village was one that needed such a facility - it was maintained for many years by the local Division who kept it stocked. Originally it would have had a key in a case attached to the door so it could be unlocked in an emergency. With better access by the Ambulance service and a GP facility in the village it eventually fell into disuse. However the box was considered of significance by local people who took on the responsibility for keeping it in good repair. These boxes which came in several sizes, were once to be found at many locations around the country before emergency services became more mobile.