A THIRD potentially life-saving defibrillator will soon be situated in Burtonwood following a community campaign.

Plans were put in place earlier this year to buy two defibrillators but – following an outpouring of support from residents – a third defibrillator is expected to be available in the coming weeks.

Brian Maffitt, who has played an integral role in the fundraising initiative, said: "You never know what could happen in the future or when you will need a defibrillator.

"Unfortunately there may come a time when it is needed and hopefully it could help to save a life.

"We hope this will have a knock-on effect in other villages nearby and motivate them."

A fundraising campaign was launched in response to the shock news that a member of the Burtonwood Veterans football team had suffered a heart attack on the pitch.

In December, 50-year-old Martin Ratcliffe, of Fir Tree Lane, was playing football when he fell ill and needed urgent medical attention.

Had it not been for the quick-thinking of his colleagues, Martin could have died.

Since then a series of fundraisers have been organised including a charity concert by the Burtonwood Amateur Music and Drama Society on June 17 and 18.

The production of Mrs Brown's Girls enjoyed a sell-out show on the Saturday with the guest of honour council leader Terry O'Neill drawing the raffle.

One of the defibrillators has also been donated by Burtonwood Dahlia Queen's Trust.

Generous donations have also helped to fund the three defibrillators which will be housed in a secure unit at different locations in the village.

The first two pieces of equipment are located on the wall of the doctors' surgery on Clay Lane and at Burtonwood Community Centre off Green Jones Brow.

The third defibrillator will be positioned outside St Michael's Church Parish Hall on Chapel Lane.

Information will be delivered to every home in the village in the coming months to raise awareness of the new equipment.

Those in need of the equipment can call 999.

By asking for the ambulance service they will immediately release the code for access to this valuable life-saving equipment.