TAUNTON Deane Borough Council is launching a fund to help pay

for community defibrillators across the borough at an event today (Wednesday).

It has set aside £13,000 for the defibrillator grants programme which could help save lives in rural communities.

Town and parish councils, village hall committees, sports clubs and community groups are invited to attend and find out how they can apply for up to 50% of the costs towards a defibrillator. The event at Deane House runs from 5-7pm.

People attending can speak to representatives from two charities which specialise in giving advice and supplying defibrillators,

and two organisations which help community groups and local councils apply for funds and manage projects.

Cllr Jane Warmington, executive councillor for Community Leadership, said: “A defibrillator could be lifesaving for a person who has a sudden cardiac arrest.

“The faster the response the greater the chances of survival, so access to a defibrillator is vital.

“We hope this new funding programme will see an increase in the provision of defibrillators, especially in rural parts of the borough, and I would encourage as many people as possible to attend the information evening.”

Anyone planning to attend the launch needs to pre-register by calling 01823 356328 or 01823 356481.