Horse can go where ambulance can't

St John Ambulance is expanding its fleet _ but the latest addition is not the usual mode of transportation.
A cross-bred 14-year-old gelding, Bailey, has arrived in Tauranga and is the newest member of the St John team.
He will be used in partnership with another horse, Ali, to help provide first aid at events in the wider Bay of Plenty.
St John provides first aid treatment at many events, some of which have limited vehicle access.
St John District Operations Manager Jeremy Gooders said having the option of riding to a patient was a major advantage and meant people got help faster.
Horses also had the added benefit of getting through large crowds easily, where it was difficult to get a vehicle through.
Bailey is living with paramedic and horse lover Lisa Charman, who has worked with horses on and off for seven years.
She has been a paramedic for 12 years and said she was very excited about having Bailey.
"We are really excited to have this opportunity here in the Bay.
I'm incredibly lucky to be able to mix my passion for horses with my work, and be able to help people along the way."
Bailey is kitted out with saddle bags so he can carry first aid equipment while on duty.
He is already fully trained as a St John horse, as he has been living in Cambridge and working with St John in the Waikato.
Bailey would also be used for publicity work and school visits in the Western Bay.
"He has a very sweet nature, is pretty laid back and loves attention," Ms Charman said.
If you are holding any events where you could utilise St John and Bailey please call the Tauranga area manager on 578 3960, or the Tauranga area office on 578 2011.