Three new life-saving community response cars are now on the road across Essex, thanks to a £100,000 donation from Essex Freemasons to the East of England Ambulance Service Charity.
These vehicles will be used by volunteer Community First Responders (CFRs) to reach patients more quickly in 999 emergencies, particularly in rural or hard-to-reach areas where every second counts. CFRs are trained volunteers who provide vital early care while ambulances are enroute, often making a critical difference in life-threatening situations.
Lorna Hayes, Head of Community Response, said:
“Most of our CFRs use their own cars to reach those in need, so having these dedicated community response cars will not only support, equip, and provide mentoring opportunities for our wonderful volunteers, but they will also strengthen care within our communities.”
Kate Lott, Head of Charity at the East of England Ambulance Service Charity, added:
“This incredibly generous donation from Essex Freemasons will make a real and lasting difference to patients across our region. These cars are far more than just vehicles — they’re lifelines in their communities. The addition of a clearly marked fleet not only enhances visibility for our Community First Responders but also raises awareness of the essential role volunteers play every day in supporting patient care.”
The donation forms part of Essex Freemasons’ wider commitment to their 250th Anniversary celebrations in 2026, marking the milestone not only by celebrating the past, but by investing in the future of their communities.
Paul Tarrant, Provincial Grand Master of Essex (PGM), said:
“We are very pleased to be partnering with the CFRs during our 250th Anniversary. This is one of five charities we are supporting during the year, with the objective of creating a series of lasting legacies across Essex as part of our community engagement.”
Chris Hicks, Provincial Grand Charity Steward, remarked:
“Over the years, Essex Freemasons have supported a large number of ‘Blue Light’ services, and this continues that tradition. Seeing the vehicles around the county will make our members proud of the work we are doing.”
Essex First Responders (Chelmsford) is just one of the five incredible causes being supported through Essex 250. The others include:
Headway (Colchester) – funding an extension to their brain injury rehabilitation centre
Friends of Essex and London Homeless (Grays) – transport support
Essex Wildlife Trust – helping create a new reforested site at Abbotts Hall Farm
Teddies for Loving Care (TLC) – receiving a £25,000 donation to mark their 25th anniversary in 2026
