POTENTIALLY lifesaving support is now just around the corner in Longbridge Deverill thanks to a new community defibrillator.

The South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) combined with Longbridge Deverill Parish Council to install the defibrillator, which is located on the exterior of The George pub.

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are easy to use and anyone can use them – the machines talk people through what to do in a step-by-step process, meaning anyone can help to save a life after someone suffers a cardiac arrest.

Julia Doel, Assistant Community Responder Officer for SWASFT, said: “The first few minutes of a cardiac arrest are absolutely crucial so having this life-saving equipment available, while the Ambulance is en route, gives the patient the best possible chance of survival.

“The more communities we can support in having their own defibrillator, the better.”

Cardiac arrest can happen to happen anyone no matter what their age, gender of levels of fitness and early defibrillation can help the person come through.

SWASFT has launched a number of new initiatives in Wiltshire this year such as increasing the number of Community First Responders and giving better access to community defibrillators by increasing the number available.

Members of Longbridge Deverill parish council attended an awareness session in May where members of the public learned basic lifesaving skills.

The defibrillator is located on the exterior wall of The George pub, just off Sand Street, and is available 24 hours a day.

There is also one held at The Lakeside Garden Centre in Crockerton, which is available during opening hours.