A life-saving defibrillator has been installed at the gates of an outdoor centre in the Yorkshire Dales for use by users of the centre and walkers on the Coast to Coast route.

The equipment has been installed at Marrick Priory Outdoor Centre, in Swaledale, thanks to funding from North Yorkshire Council and local community groups.

Staff at Marrick Priory got the idea after attending a first aid course and learned how the early use of a defibrillator can significantly improve a person’s chances of survival following a cardiac arrest.  This led to a fundraising campaign to ensure the device could be made available on site, not only for the centre but also for the wider community.

Funding for the defibrillator was provided through a number of generous donations, including contributions from North Yorkshire Council’s Locality Fund to Marrick Parish Council, Wensleydale Rotary Club, Richmond Rotary Club, and Wensleydale Round Table.

The defibrillator was purchased from London Hearts Charity, which also supported the project through a grant.

Marrick Priory covered the cost of installing the unit and will be responsible for its ongoing running and maintenance costs.
The defibrillator is housed in a powered cabinet to ensure the battery remains charged and the device stays dry and at the correct temperature.
Battery and pad checks will be carried out as part of the Priory’s weekly first aid inspections.

The defibrillator has also been officially registered with the ambulance service. In the event of an emergency, members of the public should call 999 to obtain the access code for the cabinet.

The defibrillator will then provide clear, step-by-step audio instructions until emergency services arrive. Safety features within the machine ensure a shock is delivered only when a life-threatening heart rhythm is detected.

Upper Dales councillor Yvonne Peacock said she was pleased to support the Locality Fund application through Marrick Parish Council, adding that the defibrillator would serve a wide area and continue to benefit the community for years to come.