A new defibrillator has been installed outside a Scout Hut on St John’s Road.

The new Automated External Defibrillator (AED) has been fitted on the wall next to the skate park, adding to the network of life-saving equipment across Ely.

The Defibrillator is available for use 24/7 by anyone who needs it, and has been registered on the national database so that 999 call operators can provide an access code to unlock the equipment in an emergency.

Group Lead Volunteer Brian Calvert said it had been placed in “a key location”.

He added: “We have over 130 young people taking part in Scouts each week, as well as 30 group volunteers.

"We also recognise that we are key part of the Ely community and our hut is in a busy public location next to St. John’s Park. 

“It was important to us as Scouts that the equipment be available for anyone in our community who might need it, and not locked away.

“Anyone can use a defibrillator – no training is needed as it tells you exactly what to do. Having our own AED gives a great focus for the first aid training for our young people, so we’ll ensure that all our Beavers, Cubs and Scouts know how to use one”.

Funding for the defibrillator was obtained through a Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) grant with the Trustees of 1st Ely Scouts unanimously agreeing to match-fund the grant with a £750 donation.