A new defibrillator has been installed in Silsden for use in medical emergencies.

The £1,000 machine can help to restore people’s heartbeats after a cardiac arrest.

The defibrillator is stored in a secure box on the outside wall of the community rooms at St James’s Church.

A person dialling 999 in an emergency will be given the combination for the box’s lock.

Silsden Town Council provided funding for both the defibrillator and the £600 security box.

The project was the brainchild of town councillor Lawrence Walton, who also organised training sessions for town residents. A council spokesman said the project had received unanimous support from other members.

Coun Walton added: “The first few minutes are vitally important before the ambulance arrives.

“This piece of equipment keeps people alive for those minutes.”