Health Matters: Life-saving plan by Red Cross

Almost half a million under fives visit Accident and Emergency departments every year due to accidents in the home. The Red Cross believes these statistics demonstrate a need for parents to learn how to cope with emergencies. Parents were confident in treating bleeding and, to a lesser extent, burns but were worried about coping with life threatening situations like choking and breathing difficulties.

The Red Cross chief executive, Sir Nick Young, said: "There is no greater act of humanity than to save someone's life."

Course dates: www.redcross firstaidtraining.co.uk

Ironman breaks own target

Paul Boote, who was inspired to take part in his first Ironman distance triathlon after the death of a friend who suffered from depression, has broken his fund-raising target. Paul, CEO of Wakefield-based design agency Core Design, completed the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike race and 26.2-mile marathon run in 13 hours 44 minutes and 20 seconds.

He undertook the challenge in memory of his friend, Ian Gaughan, hoping to raise 1,000 for Depression Alliance, a charity that provides counselling and resources to those who are suffering from this treatable illness.

So far he has raised a total of 1,834 – however, he is still taking donations at his website http://www.justgiving.com/Paul-Boote.

Paul said: "After continually pushing myself for almost 14 hours non-stop, I feel battered and bruised, but this is a cause that is close to my heart due to Ian's loss and my father's recent experience with depression, so it was doubly rewarding when I crossed the finish line to think that the money I have raised is going to help people get the counselling they need.

"Thank you to everyone who has contributed and continue to make donations – hopefully by undertaking this challenge I have raised a greater sense of awareness into this problem and inspired some people to do the same and raise money for Depression Alliance."