A HEREFORDSHIRE town will get vital life-saving equipment after a successful fundraising appeal.

Ledbury residents took just a week to raise £600 towards a public access defibrillator.

The machine will be based in the town centre and will allow trained people to respond to emergencies.

Supporters raised the funds on September 20 after the 21st Society organised a charity golf day near Chepstow.

The event, which included a raffle and auction, was sponsored by local businesses and altogether raised £1,581.

The remainder will go to the Ledbury branch of Community First Responders (CFR), whose members will be trained to use the equipment.

Having secured the funding, West Midlands Ambulance Service can now apply to the British Heart Foundation to meet the remaining costs.

“I am overwhelmed at the response,” said Nathan Hudson, regional head of CPR.

“This is a fantastic example of true community spirit which, in turn, saves lives.”

Defibrillator training is being offered to the public on November 1 and 9 at Ledbury Ambulance Station.

For more details on how to get involved, call Saddle Bound Cycles on 01531 633433 or Colin Rowberry on 07747 767806 (evenings only)