A new community defibrillator has been uneviled in West Huntspill.
The Parish Council and various residents have worked together to provide the life-saving equipment in the village, which has been installed outside The Crossways Inn.
West Huntspill Parish Council initially decided to investigate the possibility of installing a community defibrillator in the village earlier this year.
Following research, a defibrillator was purchased from the British Heart Foundation, and it was shortly followed by a weather-proof, heated external cabinet in which to house it.
Steve Dean, right, and Abi, landlord and landlady of the Crossways, allowed the defibrillator to be placed within the old porch on the outside of the building – allowing easy, clear access in times of emergency.
Steve also paid for alterations to provide an electrical source to meet the cabinet’s power needs. The electrical work was carried out by Pete Buller of MB Electrics, a local firm, who provided services at a much discounted rate.
Local training has taken place in the use of the defibrillator and basic life support, with more to follow. South West Ambulance Trust have also added the kit to their system and it has now gone live.
“It is a wonderful thing when people give back to the community. The efforts of Steve, Pete and everyone else should be applauded. It has taken the pub’s status to another level,” said a council spokesperson.
