A WELSH rugby player has been unveiled as the new ambassador for a leading first aid charity.

Welsh rugby player Justin Tipuric has been unveiled as the new ambassador for charity St John Cymru Wales as it launches its new uniform.

St John Wales volunteers, of which there are more than 4000 across Wales, will now be wearing the new green and black operational uniform at all events.

Wales and Ospreys player Justin Tipuric was also unveiled as the charity’s youth ambassador at the event, and will go on to represent St John Wales’ younger volunteers.

Justin said, “I am passionate about giving young people skills for life and I invest a lot of my time into coaching junior players at my old club, Trebanos RFC.

“I have seen first-hand how dangerous injuries on the pitch can be and I know that having a qualified first aider available in the first few minutes of an accident can make all the difference.

“St John Wales has 3000 volunteers under the age of 25 and I hope to inspire them and commend them for the fantastic work they do.”

Keith Dunn, St John Wales’ Chief Executive said, “The charity has a strong history in Wales.

"The public expect to see our volunteers in the traditional black and white uniform wherever crowds gather in large numbers.

“We’re delighted to launch our new uniform at the Millennium Stadium, thanks to our relationship with the WRU where we provide training to its rugby clubs across Wales.”

The uniform is the first update for St John Wales since 1990. Volunteers and staff will now wear it at all events.

St John Wales’ vision is to have a first aider on every street in Wales. To become a volunteer, donate to the charity or book onto a first aid course, visit www.stjohnwales.org.uk.