As High Sheriff, I am raising funds for two very important causes during my term of office.

West Glamorgan Crimebeat. This charity gives funds for young people in order to provide increased quality of life and safer Communities. For example funds have been provided for young people who care for an adult family member to have a respite camping holiday. This gives them an opportunity to experience activities which their peers take for granted but which are denied to them because of their caring activities.

Cycle First Responders. St John (Wales) volunteers are saving lives through the cycle first responder initiative. The volunteers (who are often trained health professionals) undergo extensive first aid training and have to achieve advanced cycle proficiency. Their cycles are equipped with the latest medical technology such as ECG machines and defibrillators. Their role is to be the first responder especially when an ambulance may take some time to arrive. For example, when roads are closed during sporting events or festivals when there are very large crowds.

By being first on scene, cycle first responders have saved lives from treating drug overdoses, cardiac arrest and suicide attempts.

I wish to raise funds to purchase two cycles and the equipment so that there can be a cycle first responder team in Swansea and the West Glamorgan area. We already have the volunteers and the local authority has provided the space for a base.

On Saturday Nov 12th I am having my Great Fish and Chip Shop Challenge. A colleague bet me that I would not order fish and chips in my court dress. I am taking up the bet by buying lunch for St John Cadets in my village who are going to represent Wales in the UK championships. The lunch is to wish them Good luck and to collect on my bet. I may cut the fish and chips with my court sword! I will post phtographs. Please contribute and add to the amount raised

Professor Donna M Mead OBE OStJ FRCN