How CESV/112 Volunteers Showed the Power of Community Action

Volunteers often drive the most meaningful change in our communities. The CESV/112 story of Terry Carter and Steve Collard shows how dedicated people can strengthen safety, build trust, and inspire progress — a reminder of the impact committed volunteers can have anywhere.

How CESV/112 Volunteers Showed the Power of Community Action

Across every community, real change often begins with volunteers, ordinary people who choose to step forward and make a difference. As we revisit the story of Terry Carter and Steve Collard, first shared through their CyprusScene interview, their work with CESV/112 in Northern Cyprus shows just how far commitment and teamwork can go. Their example reminds us that when volunteers give their time, skills, and heart, they empower improvements that strengthen communities everywhere, including here in Peterborough.

By Chris Elliott….

Over the years, CyprusScene has received many requests to share news and reviews from Northern Cyprus, and among these have been the activities of 112, later known as CESV (Civil Emergency Service Volunteers). The organisation was founded by Terry Carter, and upon his retirement to the UK, Steve Collard took over leadership, continuing the training programmes delivered by both Turkish Cypriot and expatriate volunteers.

I have a deep personal affinity with the early 112 volunteer group, with whom my late wife and I became involved, taking part in many of their activities and witnessing first-hand the dedication of those who served.

Our founding President Mr Terry Carter

Our last two Presidents Mr Atilla Mahmutoglu (left) and Mr Steven Collard

Sadly, both Terry Carter and his successor Steve Collard, have passed away. With Steve’s loss, CESV’s activities came to an end, and its future remained uncertain. We have now received the following announcement from Ümit Karana, Former Vice President of CESV/112.

Official Announcement from Ümit Karana

Hi Chris, I hope you are well, and I have an announcement about CESV/112 if you would kindly publish it on CyprusScene.com, which will be much appreciated to reach out to the many people who either supported or were part of CESV/112 over the years.

A picture from a parade on 20th of July

A training picture

Sad News

Our association CESV/112 has closed because of the loss of our late President, Steve, and the rest of the active members do not want to continue with the training they were giving without him. So, as of 12th May 2026, the management board of CESV gathered together and decided upon the dissolution of the association and the cessation of all activities.

One month later, the TRNC Civil Defence District Office approved our decision. After that, we donated all our belongings, training equipment, training dummies, books, and field equipment for first aid, to the TRNC Fire Brigade and Civil Defence. Finally, we donated all the money the association made during its active years to the Fire Brigade to purchase the equipment they needed, in accordance with the last wishes of the late Steve Collard.

Kind thanks for your past help, and take care.

Ümit Karana Former Vice President, CESV/112

For those interested in the past activities of the organisation, please search “112” or “CESV” Terry Carter or Steve Collard on CyprusScene.com to revisit the many articles, reports, and memories we shared over the years.

For a broad overview of Terry Carter and 112/CESV’ background click here