A GENEROUS donation in memory of Winsley resident Nola Allen has gone towards purchasing a new community defibrillator.

Funds for the defibrillator, which will be stationed at Winsley Social Club, were raised by husband John Allen, 81, and daughter and Winsley parish councillor Kerry Kemp, 51, and donations at Mrs Allen’s funeral.

Following Mrs Allen’s deathfrom a cardiac arrest in October 2014, the family sought to raise over £2,000 to provide the community with a defibrillator and are delighted it is up and running.

“The response from the locals has been really positive, so much so someone else said they would donate another one nearby so yes it has been a very worthwhile decision,” said Mrs Kemp.

“My father wanted to get one in memory of her and he wanted to do something for the community as well and give back to the place he has lived since 1959.''

“It just makes me feel really good to have it installed and hopefully this can do a lot of good and save lives.”

The waterproof machine is designed to be used by untrained members of the public and is the lightest defibrillator on the market.

It works by means of verbal instruction and, as it senses the change in blood pressure during use, it will give commands to push harder and faster, therefore adjusting to each individual casualty regardless of age, size or weight.

Acting chairman of the Winsley Parish Council and retired physician, Ed Gilby, said: “To have a defibrillator nearby is so valuable to the community. Someone who has a cardiac arrest can often be saved by prompt treatment so installing one of these is great news.”

On top of the donations, plans are in place for another one to be installed too which is great.”