ORGANISATIONS have been recognised for their role in bringing lifesaving devices to a town.

Defibrillators have recently been installed around Whitchurch by the Whitchurch Association, with businesses and facilities housing the units.

The idea for having the defibrillators installed came after an elderly person was taken ill at the community centre and while they recovered, it was felt having a device nearby would have been useful.

Denyse Coles, chair of trustees at the Whitchurch Association, said: “We want the defibrillator to become like a fire extinguisher, so people can get used to them being around and don’t feel afraid to use them when it is needed.

"That’s why we are offering training and refresher courses and getting as many units put in place as we can.

“There are still a few more areas we are looking to put defibrillators in place, for example where the new housing developments will be.”

There are currently 10 defibrillators, located at Whitchurch Surgery, Whitchurch Smiles Ltd, in Winchester Street; the Gill Nethercott Centre; the Whitchurch Sports and Social Club; Albright International Ltd; outside Dental Concepts; Testbourne Fitness Gym; Bere Hill Nursing Home; R.S.Birch; and the Prince Regent.

Training in how to use the defibrillators takes place at the Gill Nethercott Centre.