Residents have the chance to learn first aid and how to use a new life-saving device at Sidford Social Hall next week.

Sidmouth Herald: Members of Sidford Hall with their new defibrillator. Ref shs 29 17TI 7572.Members of Sidford Hall with their new defibrillator. Ref shs 29 17TI 7572. (Image: Archant)

Councillor Stuart Hughes covered the £2,000 cost of the defibrillator and the committee paid the £450 installation fee after Beryl Kingman convinced members it was a worthwhile cause.

It is now in place and a free training event expected to last two hours is being held in the Byes Lane from 6.30pm on Wednesday, July 26.

Hall treasurer Peter Eagles said: “Beryl read an article about a young boy who raised money for a defibrillator and thought, ‘If he can do it, so can we’.

“Our sole aim as a charity is to provide facilities for the local inhabitants. We thought a defibrillator fits that aim.

“We’re inviting anyone along who wanted to learn how to use a defibrillator and learn some first aid.”

He thanked Cllr Hughes for funding the purchase and his ongoing support of the social hall.