PBCC Torbay donate a defibrillator

The local Plymouth Brethren congregation in Torbay recently donated a defibrillator following a tragic incident on the Moors.

Air and land ambulances were called to part of the Dartmoor National Park in Devon following an emergency callout. Witnesses said a young man had been watching the sunset at Haytor Rocks Beauty Spot before suffering a cardiac arrest.

Unfortunately, the nearest defibrillator was a distance away. Despite the efforts of those around and emergency responders, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Saddened by the heart-breaking loss of the young, 22-year-old man, members from the PBCC congregation Preston Down Trust and volunteers from the Rapid Relief Team came together to fund the purchase of an AED device.

What is an AED?

An AED, or automated external defibrillator, is used to help those experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest. It is a sophisticated yet easy-to-use medical device that can analyse the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock, or defibrillation, to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm.

The AED was donated to Illsington Parish Council and has been situated in the old BT red phone box close to the main car park at Haytor.

More than 30,000 people suffer from cardiac arrest (out of hospital) each year, and only 1 in 10 survive.

Who are the Preston Down Trust?

The Preston Down Trust is a registered charity for the Plymouth Brethren Torbay congregation, and it has been delivering public benefit for over 45 years. Plymouth Brethren members actively seek opportunities to contribute to the local communities and to be of service. The attitude is to show care and compassion in action to all. The local congregation was glad to support the local community, with many of the church members living in towns and villages surrounding the park, by donating the defibrillator, which helps meet the needs in the area.