A COMMUNITY’S fundraising efforts have resulted in lifesaving equipment being installed in a coastal town.

Shoreham is set to get six new publicly accessible defibrillators (AEDs) by the end of the year.

It comes after the Caring 4 Hearts campaign was initiated by former Adur District councillor Tania Edward in February, to raise funds for new three life-saving machines.

Thanks to residents organising fundraising events and individual donations to the fundraiser, three defibrillators have now been installed at:

· Shoreham fire station on the Holmbush roundabout

· Milward Court Day Centre in Wilmot Road

· Kingsland House in Kingsland Close.

“A big thank you to Adur District Council who kindly agreed to arrange for one of their electricians to install all three AEDs free of charge,” said Ms Edward.

“This has allowed the campaign funds to stretch further in ensuring that funding needed for the replacement heart pads and batteries for each AED unit continues.

“The Caring 4 Hearts campaign would not have been achieved without the support of the Adur community holding events to raise funds, such as Val Feniuk on Shoreham Beach who decided to throw a birthday party asking for money instead of presents and Buckets of Fun (preschool group) throwing an all day event at Buckingham Park with the support of Shoreham fire station crew and vehicle.”

Businesses have also been helping out with collection boxes and selling wristbands at the following locations:

· The Royal George Pub and Co-op at Holmbush Roundabout

· Southlands and Mansell Road post offices

· Greens Chemist and Nu-Image Hairdressers in Shoreham town centre

· Windmill Parade Dentists, Southwick.

Caring 4 Hearts has received a further donation, which has paid for three more AEDs, from the Grand Order of Lady Ratling Trustees for Cup of Kindness, which are due to be installed this month, with the further support of Adur Council.

“The fundraising will continue as we need to ensure that we have sufficient funds to pay for the heart pads which cost £47 each, following the use of an AED plus the batteries for each unit in four to five years’ time,  which cost around £245 each,” said Ms Edward.

“So if you have any loose change and you see these red money boxes please donate or go on to the Thanksgiving site as all funds will help ensure that each AED machine is primed and ready to save a life.”