A LIVE exercise tested the response of a local authority, police and voluntary agencies to a major incident.

Exercise Jurassic Spark was organised by Monmouthshire Council’s emergency planning department with the scenario they tackled, being a major fire at

Chepstow Racecourse.

Around 100 volunteers played the part of survivors who had been taken to a reception centre established at Chepstow Leisure Centre.

They were each given roles to challenge procedures and provide experience for staff caring for them at the centre.

As well as council staff, several organisations took part, including Gwent Police, St John Ambulance, the Radio Amateurs Network (Raynet), the Red Cross and even the RSPCA.

RSPCA inspector Emma Smith said: “If people involved in a major incident have their pets with them, it’s important we have facilities for

them too.”

Elin McIlroy, who works for the county’s social services department, said: “I feel a lot more prepared now for a major incident.”

Monmouthshire’s emergency planning manager Ian Hardman said: “We run this type of exercise every three years and once again I am completely overwhelmed by the response from the public in giving up their time to volunteer to portray survivors from the incident. 

“We have had yet another excellent turn out and the enthusiastic way they deliver their roles really does test all those working at the centre. 

“Our volunteers certainly ensure that all facilities and procedures are stringently challenged. I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part.

“In addition, comments from all staff of the various agencies involved in running and managing the centre have all been positive – reporting that once again the exercise has been an invaluable opportunity.

 “As in the case of any real incident, the exercise has uncovered  a number of areas where improvements to our response can be made and following a more formal debrief with the agencies involved, work will begin on up-dating our procedures. 

“I am really pleased to say that, overall, the exercise has been a great success for all involved and I am very grateful to all the staff, agencies and volunteer survivors involved.”

The Monmouthshire councillor responsible for emergency planning, Cllr Phil Murphy (Con, Caerwent), added: “The key role of our emergency planning team is assisting the council to prepare and respond to the unexpected, in addition to working with our emergency services colleagues and strategic partners during a major incident.

“We work with all areas of the council and external partners to develop, test and exercise plans and procedures. 

“These cover a wide range of scenarios to guarantee readiness and effective participation in response to an emergency.”