A SCHOOL is now ready to save lives after installing a defibrillator on its premises.

East Sussex High Sheriff Juliet Smith visited Uckfield Community Technology College to speak to students, staff and local organisations involved in the fundraising for the project.

The money was raised by the Sixth Form Leos at the college, helped by grants from the Uckfield Lions, Uckfield Rotary Club and a sponsored London to Brighton cycle ride by teachers Dan Tweed and Rory O'Connor.

Leos are the junior section of the Lions.

The defibrillator is a briefcase-sized box on the wall at the school’s reception and will be used if someone suffers a cardiac arrest.

The machine is simple and safe and gives clear spoken instructions.

Once in position, the defibrillator detects the heart's rhythm and won’t deliver a shock unless one is needed.

Mrs Smith, who is backing the Argus Save A Life campaign, said: “I was so impressed to meet the Leos and learn of their passion for voluntary work and in particular their focus on providing defibrillators within their community.

“I hope all that they are doing will inspire other young people to follow suit and in so doing help save lives."

School principal Hugh Hennebry said: "It was a privilege to hear about the work our High Sheriff does to support charities and public servants. I was very proud of our Sixth Form Leos.

"They do so much and raise so much money for so many charities. What is so impressive is the positive enthusiasm and energy they show along with their compassion and care for others."

The school is also backing the campaign, which is calling on schools, hotels, businesses and organisations to install defibrillators on their premises.

There are up to 1,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in Sussex every year and about a fifth of these happen outside the home.

Survival rates for these patients is currently five to ten per cent but having more defibrillators available could help at least double that figure.

The machines cost £850 and are simple and safe to use.