A doctor from Medway is following in the footsteps of TV presenter Claudia Winkleman by screening a first aid lesson to thousands of pupils.

Dr Ranj Singh, who grew up in the Towns, will be hosting St John Ambulance’s Big First Aid Lesson Live next month.

The free, interactive hour-long programme will be filmed in front of an audience of students and streamed directly to classrooms via the internet on Friday, June 17.

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Last year the lesson, presented by Claudia Winkleman who co-hosts Strictly Come Dancing, and was watched by 189,000 children.

Dr Ranj is encouraging schools to sign up.

He said: “As a doctor, I know only too well how important first aid can be in an emergency. Being able to immediately help someone – a family member, school mate, a neighbour, or even a stranger – can be life saving.

"But you don’t have to be a medic like me to learn or use it.

“Anyone can learn first aid at any age and that’s why I’m supporting St John Ambulance’s Big First Aid Lesson Live.

"I’m excited to be hosting this year, as I know the lesson will help enrich the next generation with the confidence and knowledge to save a life.

“We know schools are time-pressed but the Big First Aid Lesson Live is free, easy to join, and memorable, so we hope teachers everywhere sign their classes up and get involved.”

The only equipment schools need to take part is an internet connection and a screen such as an interactive whiteboard for their pupils to watch in the classroom or during assembly.

Sue Killen, chief executive St John Ambulance, said: “The Big First Aid Lesson Live is an accessible, easy to learn, and fun resource - students will finish the lesson feeling confident they could one day be a life saver.

“I encourage each and every school to take part so their pupils don’t miss out on this exciting and educational event.”

Dr Ranj grew up in Medway before moving to London to go to university. He is the co-creator and presenter of the pioneering CBeebies’ show Get Well Soon, and also has a children’s health segment on ITV's This Morning.

Visit www.sja.org.uk/bigfirstaidlesson