COLCHESTER MP Sir Bob Russell is urging the public to support the British Red Cross’ campaign for life-saving skills to be taught in the classroom.

The Government is due to report on its review of the national curriculum on April 16.

Sir Bob, who also heads the All Party Parliamentary Group for First Aid, said: “Simply put, including first aid in the schools curricula would save hundreds, if not thousands of lives every year.

“It will also produce savings to the national health service of hundreds of millions of pounds and result in a better quality of life for all throughout the land.”

He added: “I urge my fellow MPs and members of the public to back this worthy campaign by the British Red Cross.”

More than 10,000 people have signed the Pupil, Citizen, Life-saver e-campaign urging their MP to back the move.

As a result, 126 MPs have signed an early day motion, tabled by Sir Bob, urging the Government to make first aid studies mandatory in the classroom.

Joe Mulligan, the British Red Cross head of first aid, said: “It’s great so many people agree that our children should learn about these vital topics. But we still need more signatures and support.

“This is what we need in order for politicians to sit up and take note of the support our nation have for first aid education.”

To sign the petition, go to redcross.org.uk/pupilcitizenlifesaver.