Firms step up the fight for life

The jointly-funded shock machines will be placed in strategically-picked positions where large groups of people are present.

The British Heart Foundation and Westfield Health footed the bill while Yorkshire Ambulance Service provided training sessions on using the automated external defibrillators.

BHF fund-raising volunteer manager Lauren Mallinson said: “Our mission is to play a leading role in the fight against disease of the heart and circulation, so that it is no longer a major cause of disability and premature death.

“BHF raises funds to provide defibrillators in areas where there is an identified need. We are pleased to have been able to work with Westfield Health and other partners to ensure they are delivered effectively to the community.”

Defibrillators deliver a controlled electric shock to the chest to try and shock the heart back into a normal rhythm.