Defibrillator installed at Pasture Lane shops in Longbarn

Following a long-running campaign, a defibrillator has been installed outside Mukti’s Mini Supermarket on Pasture Lane.

Defibrillators are devices used to give a high energy electric shock to the heart of someone who is suffering a cardiac arrest.

The equipment has been installed in partnership with the Longbarn Residents Association, Warrington Borough Council and the North West Ambulance Service.

It has been sited outside the convenience store in order to allow access around the clock should an emergency arise.

Longbarn Residents Association chairman Geoff Orange said the defibrillator would provide ‘piece of mind’ for residents.

He added: “The LRA has been campaigning for several years to have a defibrillator installed in the locality, and recently all the necessary organisations have come together to help meet the community’s aspirations.

“Raj Asani – the owner of Mukti’s Mini Supermarket, located in the heart of Longbarn – has kindly allowed the equipment to be affixed to the wall of his shop and provided the necessary electricity, free of charge, to ensure that the defibrillator works satisfactorily.

“The installation of the appliance in Longbarn helps give piece of mind to our residents, who are hugely grateful to everyone who has collaborated to bring this to pass – and of course hope now that it will never be needed.

“And it’s another shining example of the LRA working for the benefit of our residents and, as our brand acknowledges, working together for our community.”

Cllr Tony Higgins, Warrington Borough Council’s executive board member for leisure and communities, added: “Since becoming a councillor, I made it a top priority to have a defibrillator in all public spaces.

“Last year we completed our ambitious plan to have all our council community centres fully supported with a defibrillator, ensuring that not only its users feel safer but local residents also have access to this vital piece of life saving equipment”