(Image: Supplied)
Darlington Rotary has helped install 12 publicly accessible defibrillators in and around the town in just two years - expanding access to potentially life-saving equipment in communities and public spaces.
The devices have been placed in places including Walworth, Blackwell, Aldbrough, Cockerton, and Heighington, as well as key community venues such as North Lodge Bowls Club, Old School Boxing Club, and the Salvation Army.
Gary Blenkinsopp, organiser for Darlington Rotary, said: "We have helped in providing this essential life-saving equipment in a range of different spaces and areas, and importantly help to provide training on how to use them."
Left, Gary Blenkinsopp, organiser for Darlington Rotary, presents a defibrillator to the Old School Boxing Club
(Image: Supplied)
Gary started the project two years ago after a survey revealed there were only a few defibrillators in the town and some were not accessible after normal nine to five working hours.
He said: "The machines we have helped install are now available to the public and can be the key to saving a life at any time of the day or night."
Defibrillators deliver an electrical shock to the heart to restore its natural rhythm during a sudden cardiac arrest.
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The project has involved partnerships with churches, residents’ groups, and clubs across the community.
"Rotary also has its own portable defibrillator to carry on outside trips and events we marshal, such as the Darlington 10k run."
Further information is available by contacting Gary Blenkinsopp at Darlington Rotary via dtonrotary@gmail.com.