AN appeal to provide a defibrillator in the centre of Pickering following a series of incidents has reached its target.

Members of the town’s Conservative Club decided to provide the life-saving equipment after a defibrillator was needed a number of times in the area.

Geoff Thornhill, from the club, said: “We have had five incidents in the last six months, either in or in close proximity to Conservative Club where a defibrillator was used.

“The nearest one is in the Co-Op, whereas this machine would be available 24/7 to all members of the Pickering community in a secure location.”

Mr Thornhill said the defibrialltor would be serviced and maintained by selected club members.

“The public would get access to the machine by dialling 999 where the operator would five out the access code to enable to secure box to be opened,” he said.

Mr Thornhill said the appeal to buy the defibrillator was launched shortly after the Pickering Wartime Weekend in October and had raised more than £1,700.

“We set a target of £1,600 so we are absolutely delighted to have raised the money so quickly,” he said. “We have had a great deal of support from local charities, businesses and individuals which we are extremely grateful for.”

Mr Thornhill said they hoped to have the defibrillator installed shortly on the front of the club.

“We are also aiming to hold a training session so people can come along and see for themselves how the equipment is used,” he said.

A spokesman for Yorkshire Ambulance Service, said: “We are pleased to support the Conservative Club’s appeal for a defibrillator as it will provide a resource at the heart of Pickering and be of benefit to both the club and local community.”