Great Aycliffe Town Council Partners with MISSEDABEAT to Install Lifesaving Defibrillators
Great Aycliffe Town Council has teamed up with Mark Preston from local charity MISSEDABEAT to install two new defibrillators, providing vital, potentially lifesaving devices for the community. These have been strategically placed at Simpasture Pavilion and West Cemetery, ensuring better coverage across the town.
Funds raised by numerous MISSEDABEAT followers and supporters have helped make these two projects a success. Without the continued generosity and backing of the local community, this would not have been possible.
The Town Council generously donated to this important initiative, supporting the upkeep of the defibrillators, which includes regular service checks to keep them fully operational and registered on the national database. Additionally, the Council installed all the necessary electrical wiring, allowing MISSEDABEAT to manage ongoing maintenance efficiently. MISSEDABEAT Services will oversee monthly checks and conduct further inspections if the defibrillators are ever activated.
Steve Cooper, Works and Environment Manager, expressed his support:“We are pleased to back this project, helping to protect our local community. While we hope the defibrillators are never needed, their presence provides peace of mind to residents, knowing they are available in emergencies.”
Mark Preston, representing MISSEDABEAT, praised the Council's swift action, particularly thanking Steve Cooper for his collaboration. He also shared his gratitude for the electrical team, whose prompt work ensured the cabinets were installed without delay.
Mark from MISSEDABEAT was joined by the Mayor of Great Aycliffe, Councillor John Clark, in unveiling the defibrillator placed at Simpasture Park.
Mark also highlighted the charity’s mission to ensure defibrillators are accessible within 500 meters in Newton Aycliffe, reducing response times during cardiac arrests. Since its founding in July 2023, MISSEDABEAT has installed over 60 community defibrillators and funded or part-funded more than 50 portable units.
The charity is also gearing up for the Great North Run (GNR) later this year. All adult places have already been taken, but there are still limited junior spots available. Mark encourages anyone interested in joining the team to sign up soon to avoid disappointment.
Mark added, "Thank you to everyone who has supported and continues to support MISSEDABEAT. Together, we’re making a real difference in our community."
Stay tuned—there’s more exciting news to come!
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