Bradford on Avon now has its first community defibrillator after funding from Friends of Bradford on Avon Community Healthcare (FOBOACH).

It was installed two weeks ago at the health centre in Station Approach and doctors and nurses have been getting used to the new equipment.

The £3,178 cost of the defibrillator was covered by FOBOACH who have also helped the health centre purchase other equipment including in-surgery defibrillators for St Margaret’s, St Damian’s and Winsley health centres.

Roz Carlile, nurse manager at Bradford on Avon health centre, said: “We have a lot of visitors, an elderly population as well as people walking along the canal so the defibrillator at the health centre is a central point for everyone.”

“I think it is a privilege that they have helped us out and they have helped out the community – it’s a nice legacy.”

In the past year, FOBOACH has given £15,000 to the Bradford on Avon & Melksham Health Partnership. It’s now appealing for other organisations to apply for funding.

Previously known as League of Friends of Bradford on Avon Hospital, FOBOACH has helped with various local projects, including the more recent leg club.

In the past year, it has allocated £66,000 in funds with a similar amount of money being available in the forthcoming year.

John Cottle, chairman of FOBOACH, said that some Bradford on Avon organisations are largely unaware of the available funds and has encouraged more to come forward to see if they are eligible.

“We will consider any organisation that deals with residents and is health or social care based.”

“If you need assistance, then apply,” he added.

Groups which want to be considered for next year's funding should apply in writing to:

The Secretary, Friends of BoA Community Healthcare, 9 Bear Close, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1PZ.

* National and profit-making groups cannot be considered.