East London Rugby Club has today joined people across the country in marking national 999 day – a day which pays tribute to those who work and volunteer across the blue light emergency responders and National Health Service.

The annual day which is backed by King Charles III and the Government is celebrated on 9th September and highlights the many different roles within the emergency services and the 24/7 response that is provided to the public.

The day also educates people about learning essential life-saving skills, encourages individuals to explore the diverse range of career and volunteering opportunities available within the emergency services family, and promotes emergency services charities and the work they do.

East London is a club that has, and has had, many emergency service workers amongst its ranks, including Stratford-based firefighters Kat Salthouse and Nicola Barlex (pictured) who play for East London’s ladies’ side the Vixens. Club President Nick Bracken OBE is a former police commander and former chair Simon Crick was a firefighter for more than 30 years.

Kat, Co-Chair of the club in Memorial Park, West Ham, said: “People that respond to 999 calls put their lives first to protect others. They are heroes who are ready to respond around the clock and we’re lucky to have them. We mark Emergency Services Day by thanking them all for their commitment and dedication and sacrifices they make when stepping up in our hour of need.”