A SCHOOL in Bourton is the latest in Gloucestershire to benefit from the installation of two life-saving devices.

Under the Rotary Saving Lives Project, the Rotary Club of the North Cotswolds has funded the placement of two automated external defibrillators (AEDs) at the Cotswold School.

The project, led by Kevin Dickens of the Great Western Ambulance Service, has placed nine in schools already in the county over the last two years, including Winchcombe School, with plans to widen the project across the district.

The AEDs and training are directed specifically towards sudden cardiac arrest; a major killer at any age. It is estimated that up to 100,000 people die each year unless they are treated rapidly by defibrillation.

After the launch at the school, acting headteacher Will Morgan said: “I am delighted that the students and staff at the school as well as users of the sports facilities now have vital extra protection should the need ever arise.”

The defibrillators were officially presented to the school by local National Hunt jockey Sam Twiston-Davies, who is a former pupil. Sam broke off from a training session to present the defibrillators to head boy Logan Bell and head girl Faye McKeever.

He said: “I am proud to offer my support for this venture as it raises awareness for all, particularly young people, of the need for basic life support skills as well as highlighting what we can all do in the community to complement the work of the emergency services.”

Large schools with adjoining sports facilities used by the general public out of school hours have also been contacted and offered by Rotary Clubs free installation of AEDs together with free training of staff.