RESIDENTS and tourists are to benefit from a piece of lifesaving equipment that has been installed in Thirsk Market Place.

Thirsk Community First Responders (CFRs), backed by the Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, have decided to install a defibrillator, a CPAD, in the town.

Using funds from North Yorkshire County Council, local businessman Steven Dresser was able to attach the piece of equipment to the side of the Tourist Information Centre.

Cllr Gareth Dadd said: “I was introduced to the CFRs at a public demonstration and saw the commitment and energy put in by these volunteers.

“It became apparent to me that they not only needed support for all they do, but there was a gap in provision of CPADS.”

This year the CFRs have found the funds to install eight defibrillators within the surrounding area.

Four are already in working order and the other four are scheduled to be installed within the next few months. Stephen Lifton, Thirsk CFR defibrillator coordinator, said: “On behalf of the team, thank you to everyone who assisted in the project and provided Thirsk with access to lifesaving equipment which will benefit all in the community.”