Former pupil's wish granted: life-saving defibrillator installed at Coleridge Road Primary School

Start a Heart 24/7’s latest defibrillator delivery has been completed on the doorstep of Coleridge Road Primary in Eastwood.

The school itself carried out fundraising, which was topped up by grants from Start a Heart and Rotherham Round Table.

Start a Heart founder Trish Lister said: “I was contacted in September 2020 by an anonymous phone call from a lady wanting to donate a defibrillator for that area.

“The lady eventually let it be known that she was once a pupil at Coleridge Primary almost 80 years ago and had kept the area dear to her heart ever since.

“In the nearly three years that followed, we had several disappointing attempts at gaining permission to tap into electricity supplies of surrounding properties.

“We are very grateful to Rotherham Street Lighting, who eventually came to our rescue.”

Start a Heart 24/7 is responsible for the installation of more than 100 defibrillators around Rotherham.

The charity was founded by Mrs Lister following the death of her husband Stuart from a heart attack.

Rotherham Round Table vice-chairman Phil O’Brien said: “Start A Heart is a charity we have already supported with the installation of the defibrillator outside Tesco Express at Moorgate.

“We’re privileged to be able to support defib installations across the borough, as they’re potentially life-saving devices not only for those who unfortunately require them, but also their friends and loved ones.

“All the money we raise comes from the people of Rotherham and we’re always on the lookout for good causes to support which can have a positive impact on the community.”

Round Table welcomes grant applications from community or voluntary groups, charities and individuals based in the borough.

The only requirement is the money must be spent in the Rotherham borough.

For an application form, email csloRT24@outlook.com.

The social group, which runs popular annual Santa Sleigh runs, is also keen to hear from prospective new members.

Get in touch through their Rotherham Round Table 24 Facebook page.