A LIEFSAVING gift is coming to Exbourne in West Devon thanks to the fundraising efforts of 12-year-old local resident, Joel Sawyer.

Three years ago Joel’s mother contacted South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) asking how her son could raise money for a defibrillator.

Inspired by a visit to a fete where he learned about what defibrillators are and what they are used for, he thought his rural community would benefit from one and began fundraising.

As well as putting his birthday and Christmas money towards the fund he chatted to his local WI group, local church group, and also arranged a sponsored bike ride.

The money he raised has resulted in a defibrillator being made available to residents of and visitors to Exbourne, with the official unveiling of the lifesaving device taking place at The Burrow community shop and cafe tomorrow, Tuesday, December 20, at 6pm.

Additionally, at 6.30pm tomorrow, an awareness session will be held at the village hall, enabling all local people to learn how to use the device. Information about maintaining the defibrillator, along with the importance of CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), will also form part of the session and everyone is welcome to attend.

Members of the Responder team from South Western Ambulance Service will be in attendance to deliver the training and unveil the defibrillator. The Lead Responder Officer for SWASFT, Rich Buckley, is delighted that Joel’s fundraising efforts have led to a lifesaving device being available in another of Devon’s rural communities and said: “I am looking forward to attending the event to unveil the defibrillator and would like to sincerely thank Joel and acknowledge his efforts.

"Every second counts when someone is in cardiac arrest and defibrillators often save lives. I would encourage anyone who doesn’t have one in their local community to get in touch with us, so we can advise how to go about getting one installed.”

Joel’s Mother Angie is extremely proud of her son’s efforts and said: “I am really pleased that a defibrillator will be available in Exbourne and so proud of Joel for his commitment and determination which has made it possible.”

Alan Quick