A FUND set up in memory of a popular rugby player has provided its sixth vital life-saving equipment.

Tom Parsons, from West Heslerton, died while on holiday with friends on the Greek island of Zante in August 2016.

The 22-year-old suffered from myocarditis, which is inflammation and damage of the heart muscle.

His parents, Nick and Sue, set up the Tom Parsons Trust to support the local community, and have now provided six defibrillators at different locations, with the latest at the One Stop shop in Norton.

Sue said: “The trust would like to thank York businessman Wayne Dixon for funding this defibrillator and the One Stop staff for all their support.

“We wanted the defibrillators at key locations where they could be easily accessed when needed.

“These community defibrillators have been provided through the ambulance service for members of the public to use,” she said.

“When someone dials for an ambulance they will be directed to where the nearest defibrillator is. Having access to a defibrillator quickly could help save lives.”

The Tom Parsons Trust has so far raised more than £43,000 through various fundraising events, which has funded the defibrillators and upkeep with plans for a further one at The Grapes in Great Habton.

Sue said the trust was also raising funds for the British Heart Foundation for Myocarditis research.

“Myocarditis can be mild and cause virtually no noticeable symptoms, the most frequent symptom is chest pain,” Sue said. “Often myocarditis improves on its own without treatment and can lead to complete recovery. However, in some cases like Toms and five to 20 per cent of other young adults, myocarditis can rapidly progress to heart failure.

“Nick, myself and two others trustee have been invite down to London in May to St Barts hospital for an update on the research.”

Future fundraising events include a National Three Peaks Challenge over the weekend of July 6 and Red Watch Fire fighters Malton Station Bike Event in August.

For more information, visit the Tom Parsons Facebook page.