SETTING THE BEST EXAMPLE AT MANCHESTER UNIVERSITY

A former Manchester University student returned to make a poignant presentation to the University’s Rowing Club.

Mairi Redman, gained an MSc in Physician Association Studies and is also a cousin of the late Robert Allen, who gave his name to the RALPHH charity. This is the 85^th time that the charity has been able to make the gift of a defibrillator to either a sports club or educational establishment. With Manchester University have a vibrant Boat club of 50 active members, it seemed right and proper that those participating should have nearby access to potentially life-saving defibrillation equipment.

The gift presentation was made at the University’s Boathouse on the bank of the Bridgewater Canal in Sale. From here, those in one of both nine different 8’s and nine 4’s, plus four singles can row up to six kilometres in either direction. Although founded in 1932, the Boathouse has been on its present location since 1964. In the coming weeks the Club is hopeful of qualification at both Men’s and Women’s event at Henley Regatta, with at the present time, boats in use almost every day of the week.

The gifted defibrillator will be kept prominently in the Boathouse, in the hope that it never needs to be called into use. However, all sporting authorities – including British Rowing – are keen to see that such an essential aid in helping to save a life is included wherever strenuous sporting activity takes place.

RALPHH is hoping to be able to help more universities in the future, and follow the example set by Manchester.

Pictures left to right at the presentation event in the Boathouse are: Taras Mandziuk, responsible for PR and fund-raising at Manchester University Boat Club: Club President Matt Mace; Mairi Redman and Neerav Patel, who is Club Treasurer.