Larysa helps with the big clean-up

Oldham’s Larysa Lotockyj (back row, second left) in Manchester City Centre with fellow St John Ambulance cadets

OLDHAM teenager Larysa Lotockyj rolled up her sleeves and got down to work to help in the post-riots clearup of Manchester’s streets.

The St John Ambulance cadet was one of 17 volunteers from the first-aid charity who came out to support the “I love MCR” campaign.

Larysa was among a group of cadets, aged between 10 and 17, from across Greater Manchester, who took part in the Youth United initiative.

The 17-year-old rubbed shoulders with young people from the Army and Fire Service Cadets as they swung into action to make a difference.

Sporting “I love MCR” t-shirts, the young people visited businesses in Manchester city centre to deliver campaign posters to encourage residents and business owners to stand together against anti-social behaviour.

Larysa said: “I wanted to get involved to show that there are lots of good positive young people.

“I have been talking to lots of people in Manchester, and the atmosphere and feeling of community spirit is great.”

Noel Hennessy, youth development co-ordinator for St John Ambulance Greater Manchester added: “Our young people are keen to get involved in community projects and have a strong sense of responsibility.

“This project is a great way for them to show the positive side of the youth of Greater Manchester.

“As well as learning how to be the difference between life and death, our young people put these skills into practice, learning teamwork and leadership along the way.

“Joining St John Ambulance gives them a role to play within their community and our involvement with Youth United gives them the chance to join forces with other young people from across the region.”

To find out how to join or support St John Ambulance, visit www.sja.org.uk or call 0871 423 6030.