The John Godber Centre is pleased to share that a portable defibrillator has been purchased to be used in the community venue at the heart of Hucknall.

The Centre is home to over 50 groups and businesses and used for private parties, events, live theatre and shows as well as activities for all ages throughout the week.

Hucknall U3A, who use the John Godber Centre for numerous interest groups as well as their monthly meetings, decided to raise funds for a defibrillator for the building and made a donation to the equipment of £720. Funds came from various fundraising activities by the members, including a sponsored walk by member Lynn Baker which raised £105.

The pot was increased to its final sum by a generous donation of £500 from a kind-hearted individual who wished to remain anonymous.

The defibrillator chosen allows for the use on children and adults without the need to change pads. There is a switch on the device to change quickly between adult and paediatric mode, which in an emergency situation could save crucial time and anxiety for the user, rather than having to change physical pads. The John Godber Centre hosts numerous groups and classes including fitness groups, elderly social activities, children's activities, and baby groups.

Kim Pears, Centre Manager at the John Godber Centre, said: "We give huge thanks to the U3A and to our anonymous donor, they have enabled us to purchase this lifesaving piece of equipment which we hope we'll never need to use, but have the peace of mind that it is to hand if ever needed. For our level of usage in the Centre for various age groups and range of activities, this particular defibrillator will be ideal to have. As a registered charity, and as for many, times are challenging and this kindness to help us be able to have this vital piece of equipment for the many people who use the building is greatly appreciated. We're so humbled by the fund-raising efforts and donation of those involved in our wonderful community, without them this wouldn't have happened."

The U3A Science group, which is one of many groups who use the Centre, took on the challenge of researching the range of defibrillators to help narrow down the choices and the item was purchased from the British Heart Foundation.

The defibrillator has been registered with East Midlands Ambulance Service who will arrange training for the Centre team and volunteers, free of charge, and further funding will be sought to purchase an external cabinet to house the defibrillator so it can be more easily accessed by the wider community.

For further information about the groups who meet in the John Godber Centre, the latest what's on guide can be found on the Centre's website, by clicking here.