Life-saving defibrillators installed in Gloucestershire's hard to reach areas
Housing estates in Lechlade and Fairford were identified for a new scheme using power from lamppost connections
Two housing estates in Gloucestershire have been picked for brand new defibrillators.
It's part of a scheme to install the life-saving equipment in otherwise hard to reach areas, using power from lamppost connections.
A defibrillator is a device that gives a jolt of energy to the heart. It helps get the heart beating again when someone is in cardiac arrest and their heart has stopped.
Housing estates in Lechlade and Fairford were identified for a new scheme using power from lamppost connections to install 11 new defibrillators.
This is the first time in the South West region where lamppost stubs have been used to extend coverage, setting a new landmark for defibrillation throughout the U.K.
The initiative was started by volunteers from Lechlade and District Lions Club and volunteer Community First Responders, with the support of the South West Ambulance Service and Gloucestershire Highways.
Cllr Dom Morris, Cabinet Member for Highways and Flooding said: “It’s fantastic to see Gloucestershire leading the way to save lives.
"We’re using innovation to transform your streets and support local communities.
"The volunteers who kick-started this project in Lechlade and Fairford are doing a fantastic job to serve the community. Once this scheme is finished, we will have the best coverage in the UK.
"This is indeed an amazing example of community organisations coming together to make a difference” Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.