Precision in diagnosis, coupled with their swift and effective responses, ensured that the Serbian Red Cross team scored highly at the event hosted by the Irish Red Cross in the University of Limerick. This is the second year in a row that Serbia have triumphed at FACE.

However, the Red Cross team from Bulgaria which came a close second was also praised for the care and treatment they gave casualties. While the Red Cross team from Austria was also commended for its remarkable performance.

Congratulating the teams, the Vice-Chairman of the Irish Red Cross, Tony Lawlor said the event showcased the very best skills in Europe and served to highlight the importance of First Aid.

Â"Three million people in Europe are trained in First Aid by the Red Cross every year, and this convention shows the level of expertise available right across Europe.

Â"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the competitors who have travelled to Ireland to take part in this event. Having witnessed at first-hand their skill and know-how, I am confident that our Red Cross volunteers across Europe will continue to be to the forefront of helping people in pain and distress.Â"

The German Red Cross team won first prize in a special category for their skills at triage at a special decontamination unit exercise sponsored by the state health service of Ireland, the Health Service Executive (HSE).

The Polish Red Cross team won first prize in a special category for Youth Red Cross.

And Tony Lawlor also thanked Irish Red Cross volunteers and staff who had helped to make the event such a success. Lead sponsors Ambu and Cardiac Science were also thanked for their financial support.

The Irish Red Cross was widely praised for hosting a particularly enjoyable and challenging event that presented serious and realistic tests to competitors, while at the same time ensuring a festive and fun atmosphere was had by all. The Irish Red Cross has won this event four times in the history of this annual competition and this was the first year that the Irish Red Cross hosted FACE.

Next yearÂ's First Aid Convention in Europe will take place in the European Capital of Culture 2008, Liverpool, in June. Further details from www.face08.org.uk