A COUNCILLOR has queried why the St John Ambulance Service had to be hired for an event which attracted 50 people.

Amber Valley Borough Council was told that most of those present were a choir and a band for the event at the River Gardens in Belper.

Belper Town Council leader John Nelson said the ambulance service's presence added £50 to the costs of the event.

"There are probably 50 people walking around there when an event is not on," said Mr Nelson. He suggested enough cover could be provided by a steward with a mobile phone.

The point was raised during a presentation by Brian Shore, the council's community safety adviser.

He said local authorities had been criticised in courts for lack of safety at events.