A NEW defibrillator kit installed in Silsden could help save a life in future.

Craven ward councillors Adrian Naylor and Chris Atkinson have welcomed the device's installation on the outside of the Gloucester Avenue Community Centre, which is owned by the housing association Incommunities.

The councillors made the initiative possible by allocating money from the Keighley Area Committee. A similar kit was installed at St James Church, Silsden, earlier in the year thanks to funding from Silsden Town Council.

Coun Naylor said he was one of a number of local councillors who have attended training sessions in how to use the defibrillators.

"People do die from cardiac arrest, even when it's preventable," he said. "If you can get to them quickly and keep their heart beating till the professionals arrive then they have a better chance of surviving.

"If these kits save one life then the cost of them is well worth it.

"I spoke to Incommunities and they were happy to host this latest kit, because they understand that it's for everyone's benefit."

He explained that each defibrillator is mounted outside in a secure box. These can be opened when needed by obtaining a key-pad code from the ambulance service.

Coun Naylor said he would like to see defibrillators sited in suitable locations in Steeton when funding is available.

Helen Gibson, director of Incommunities Neighbourhood Services said: “We are delighted to host this life saving equipment at the community centre which has been kindly supported by Ward Initiative funding from the district council.

“Importantly, the defibrillator is conveniently located for local residents in the event of an emergency, and complements other such facilities in the Silsden and Addingham areas.”