Ambulance Service

St. John Ambulance

The ambulance service in Hastings was originally operated by the St. John Ambulance Brigade, which had headquarters under the Glenroyde Hotel on the corner of Wellingon Square and Castle Hill Road for a period around 1914.In 1954, they carried 12623 patients and travelled 116,245 miles over 7476 journeys in their fleet of six ambulances and four cars.

Fever Ambulance

In 1931, Hastings Corporation received a state-of-the-art fever ambulance that marked a significant upgrade in its public health response capabilities. This modern vehicle, built on a robust 20 hp Austin chassis, was not only reliable but also incorporated several innovative features that distinguished it from its predecessors.

One of the standout elements of the ambulance was its servo braking system. At a time when automotive technology was rapidly advancing, the inclusion of servo brakes provided enhanced stopping power and improved control, ensuring safer and more efficient operation during emergency runs. This was particularly important for a vehicle tasked with navigating both urban and rural routes under urgent conditions.

A truly unique aspect of this ambulance was its forward airtight compartment, specifically designed for the secure transport of infected bedding. During an era when stringent measures were required to control the spread of infectious diseases, this compartment was an ingenious solution. It minimized the risk of airborne contamination by securely sealing away soiled linens, thereby protecting both the vehicle’s occupants and the broader community from potential pathogens. This new ambulance replaced the previous model, which had been in service for over seven years.

Images

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  The New St John Ambulance Hastings and St Leonards Observer Saturday 14 August 1937 BNA

See also: St. John Ambulance Brigade Headquarters