Emergency equipment that could save lives in the community has been installed in Ripon thanks to the fundraising efforts of a parents’ association.

Ripon Grammar School has taken delivery of a defibrillator, which has been mounted in a locked cabinet on the outside wall of its sports hall.

Sixth form students and staff have been trained by Yorkshire Ambulance Service in how to use the equipment, but anyone can follow the instructions to operate it in the event of an emergency.

Alison Reed, of the Grammar School Parents' Association, said the idea to fundraise for a community defibrillator was suggested by a parent who is also a doctor.

She said: “It came out of a conversation at one of our meetings and everyone agreed it was a good idea, especially since it's something for school but also a benefit for the whole local community.”

Parents supported fundraising activities including a murder mystery night, a summer ball, Christmas fair and a Burns Night supper to pay for the machine.