A LIFE-saving defibrillator was officially unveiled after a community-backed fundraising mission raised thousands of pounds.
The invaluable tool was officially unveiled last Friday (May 6) at Old Basing Tennis Club by the Mayor of Basingstoke Cllr Onnalee Cubitt.
The community asset can be used by tennis players, allotment holders and anyone using the area of Old Basing.
The unveiling event was a success with more than 35 people attending, including members of the tennis club and various invited guests.
The evening coincided with a ‘social tennis’ evening that is held regularly at the club throughout the summer on a Friday evening.
READ MORE: Old Basing Tennis Club gets a defibrillator after months-long fundraiser
Short speeches were given by the mayor and Nigel Hatt, chairman of the tennis club.
Nigel said: “We were delighted that the mayor was able to unveil our life-saving defibrillator for us, making it a really special occasion.
“It was a great evening with lovely weather for playing tennis and having a barbecue with over 35 people there enjoying the courts and surroundings it showed really well why we all love playing tennis at Old Basing Tennis Club.
“I’d also like to thank everyone who gave donations allowing us to get this life-saving defibrillator fitted to the clubhouse for anyone who is in medical need to use it.”
Given the location of Old Basing Tennis Club in Riley Lane next to the recreation ground, busy allotments and footpaths, the club committee wanted to provide the equipment and promote health and well-being to club members and the local community.
Last year the club started to raise the £1,600 needed to buy and install the defibrillator. It raised £500 through the club’s popular annual quiz held last November and the Christmas dinner.
Following an awareness campaign amongst more than 120 members, the adjacent allotment tenants and local Old Basing residents, the club was able to raise the remaining £1,100. Local companies, people and club members donated money, while it also received a large anonymous donation from one local resident.
Message from the editor
Thank you for reading this story. We really appreciate your support.
Please help us to continue bringing you all the trusted news from your area by sharing this story or by following our Facebook page.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here