A NEW potentially life-saving defibrillator has been installed in Upper Gornal.
The device in Upper Gornal Methodist Church can be accessed via a 999 call and is used to deliver a life-saving shock to the heart of someone suffering a cardiac arrest.
It cost around £1,200, which was generated through a year-long fundraising drive spearheaded by the Sedgley St John Ambulance unit with support from the Coseley and District Friday Night Darts League.
Carol Littler, unit manager of St John Ambulance Sedgley, said: "Up to seven out of 10 people who suffer a cardiac arrest could survive if they are treated with a defibrillator within the first five minutes, so we're delighted to be able to provide the first public access defibrillator in Upper Gornal."
Upper Gornal councillor Adam Aston thanked everyone who made it possible on behalf of himself and fellow ward councillor Keiran Casey, adding: "As a paramedic, I'm only too aware that early defibrillation is the key to saving a life and hope this is the first of many in our area."
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