HEART attack victims in Osbaldwick have a much better chance of survival after a new public access defibrillator was installed by its parish council.

The equipment was unveiled at 41 Thirkleby Way, near the shops in Osbaldwick, by Maurice Pye, consultant cardiologist at York Hospital.

Osbaldwick parish chairman Mark Warters said two people at the unveiling had had life- saving procedures carried out by Mr Pye in the past, and the defibrillator was located on the garage wall of one of them, parish councillor Laurie Pye, who was no relation, “Laurie has had three serious heart episodes and fully realises the value of such apparatus,” said Cllr Warters.

He said a training event would be held by Kiri Frampton, community defibrillation trainer from the Yorkshire Ambulance Service, at 6pm on Tuesday, June 21, at St Thomas’ Church, and all residents would be welcome.

He added: “It would be good to think the defribrillator will never be needed to be used, but if it is,then it may well contribute to saving a life.”

For details about the training event, phone Louise Pink on 01904 272079.