A defibrillator has been installed outside of Marlborough School in Falmouth thanks to the fundraising efforts of three staff members and is now ready for use by the community.

Last September, staff had their annual first first aid training when they were told of the importance of early intervention in a heart attack and how a defibrillator could save someone's life. By the end of the session, three members of staff - Lisa Walker, Michelle Wills-Mack and Melissa Pentecost - had made it their mission to raise the funds needed for a defibrillator to be installed outside of the school.

Since then, the trio have held two quiz nights for the family and friends of the Marlborough community. Lisa said: "At the first quiz night not only did we have a special guest appearance from Betty Stogs, who told many a risqué joke, but we also had 50 pasties, kindly donated by Charlie Choak of Choak's pasties, to sell on the night. It was a great success, raising £1,072, and we couldn't wait to do another."

After another quiz, a dress up day and selling mince pies and mulled wine at the Christmas concerts they raised a further £430. Falmouth Fire Station then donated £500 from the money raised at its fireworks night and the Falmouth Harmony Choir donated a further £400 from the money they raised on Christmas Eve.

Altogether, £3066 was raised by Lisa, Michelle and Melissa with the help and support from the school's staff and parents.

The defibrillator has now been installed outside of the school so that the local community can also access it.

Head teacher, Richard Gambier, said: “Lisa, Michelle and Melissa’s inspirational efforts have helped the whole school to recognise our commitment to the immediate community. We could have sought funding to provide a defibrillator just for the school, but it would have been locked away and unavailable in an emergency outside of school times.

"Because of their enthusiasm, and the support of other community organisations, we’re able to ensure that the school is able to give something back to the people of Falmouth."

The AED (defibrillator) is designed to be operated easily by people with no medical background. When activated, messages will guide the user through the process and will only allow it to shock a 'shockable' heart rhythm.