�2k raised thamks to St John Ambulance and societies

SIDMOUTH’S Manor Pavilion has been handed a piece of lifesaving kit thanks to the efforts of town St John Ambulance members and societies which use the venue.

More than �2,000 was raised to provide the theatre with a defibrillator and cabinet which could prove vital if drama unfolds off-stage.

Every staff member at the popular Manor Road hub will be trained to use the device.

The purchase was made possible thanks to generous donations from Sidmouth Consolidated Charities, Sidmouth Musical Comedy Society, their patrons, and Sidmouth Arts Club Operatic Society.

St John Ambulance leaders co-ordinated fundraising and handed over the defibrillator to Manor Pavilion theatre manager Graham Whitlock at a presentation evening last Tuesday night.

“We’re just thrilled and delighted,” said Mr Whitlock.

“The venue is used so much, you never know when you might be called upon to use the defibrillator.

“The fact this piece of equipment can save someone’s life is fantastic. It’s a brilliant piece of kit. You can’t do any harm with it.

“So many people come to our shows, it was St John Ambulance, which covers most of our performances, that decided we could really do with one at the venue.

“Different societies which use the venue all did collections and made donations.

“We’re overwhelmed with the reaction of people and their support.

“The fact we have this here all of the time is a huge bonus.”

Sidmouth St John Ambulance superintendent Brian Johansen added: “This is what we aim to do, provide life saving equipment and get people trained to use it. The response was wonderful.

“We’re now able to train staff and those society members who wish to learn this vital skill. The defibrillator will be available to all users of the theatre and arts centre during their occupancy of the building.”

Councillor Stuart Hughes also chipped in with money from his county authority locality budget.