Sidmouth could soon get its first public access defibrillator, thanks to the strength of support for a pioneering new scheme.

The Lions Club of Sidmouth has pledged a substantial amount towards funding the life-saving piece of kit - to be stored in a central location.

Defibrillators are important life-saving tools, issuing a high-energy shock to make a heart start beating again in the event of a cardiac arrest, when quick response is crucial.

Lions club member Phil Lee said: “We are mindful that other towns and villages have managed to get this facility and want these to be available to locals and visitors in the town centre.”

Town councillor David Barratt is leading the campaign to have better access to the machines, which also involves compiling a list of current defibrillators that can be accessed in Sidmouth.

While he is encouraged by support, he is still hoping organisations that have a unit on-site will come forwards.

Councillor Barratt said: “We want to ensure any organisations with defibrillators that we would be more than happy to list days and times when they are available.”

He described the response from the public as a ‘fantastic result’.

Emma Donovan, a Red Cross trained first aider, got in touch to offer her support, and said having better access to defibrillators will significantly increase someone’s chance of survival if they do suffer a cardiac arrest.

Any organisations with a defibrillator on site are asked to call the town council on 01395 512424 email enquiries@sidmouth.gov.uk.