Report From	Bill Whitehouse, DCRO Chairman.
Report Date	04/2005.
Published	04/2005.

After more than five years planning, researching and, above all, fund raising, DCRO is now the proud owner of a new rescue vehicle and its 24 year old Bedford van has been driven off into honourable retirement.

The replacement vehicle is a brand new Iveco Daily van which Iveco supplied on very favourable terms through their local dealer Sherwood Motors. It was delivered straight to a specialist firm, Macclesfield Motor Bodies (UK) Ltd who carried out extensive adaptions and modifications to turn it into just what we wanted.

The new rescue vehicle (it s too good just to be called a van!) is divided into three compartments each with its own access. A three seater cab at the front, a control/communications area behind that and then an equipment storage area at the rear. A removable panel between the control and equipment areas enable the combined space to be used to treat (and transport) a casualty in a stretcher. The control area can also be extended by opening out a custom fitted Vanex awning/room to provide a sheltered area for briefings, sorting gear, brewing up etc.

Other adaptions include a full roof rack, a hydraulic radio aerial, roller shutter rear doors, both 240 volt and 12 volt electrical systems (with lots of sockets) run off two batteries and a generator, all round flood lighting, warning lights and horns, improved interior lighting, heating and ventilation, a PA system, comprehensive storage racks, cupboards and drawers for equipment and supplies and last but not least a very smart paint job and livery.

We are extremely grateful to the many local charities, businesses, clubs and individuals whose donations have made it possible for us to get our new vehicle.