'It’s one of those things you hope you’ll never need, but when you do, it’s priceless'
A pub in Ackworth, has shown how powerful community spirit can be by raising funds for a life-saving defibrillator now installed outside.
The project, launched using the MyCommunityDefib platform, makes The Rustic Arms the first pub in the UK to install a defibrillator through the new national initiative to help neighbourhoods, businesses and venues fund and maintain publicly accessible defibrillators.
The idea began after a first-aid training session for The Rustic Arms team, when staff realised the nearest defibrillator was difficult to reach at certain times of the day.
Rather than wait for someone else to act, the team decided to start a campaign through MyCommunityDefib.
Donations came through the website from customers, a collection box on the bar, and even an ‘add £1 to your pint’ option at the till.
Within weeks, the target was reached and the bright yellow cabinet was installed outside the pub.
Shortly after installation, the defibrillator was called into action during a local emergency.
The man involved was revived at the scene and taken to hospital, but sadly passed away later that night.
Although the outcome was tragic, the incident highlights just how crucial it is to have publicly accessible defibrillators close at hand - every minute without one reduces the chance of survival.
Kayleigh Bridge, who works at the pub and helped coordinate the Rustic Arms campaign, said: “It’s such a comfort knowing it’s there.
“It’s one of those things you hope you’ll never need, but when you do, it’s priceless. The whole village feels safer because of it.”
Ryan Woor, spokesperson for MyCommunityDefib, said: “The Rustic Arms’ story is a moving example of why we need more defibrillators across our communities.
"In a cardiac arrest, every second counts - and having a defibrillator just a few minutes closer can be the difference between life and death.
"Our aim is to make them accessible where people live, work and socialise, and to make the process simple, affordable and fully maintained.”
Each MyCommunityDefib package includes a top-of-the-range Philips AED, an unlocked weatherproof cabinet, and a four-year service plan covering pad and battery replacements.
The platform also guarantees that if a fundraising target isn’t met, all donations are refunded in full - so there’s no financial risk for organisers or donors.