St Agnes Parish has boosted its Community Access Defibrillator count by a whopping 75% this year.

This eye-catching increase is thanks to support from individuals, businesses, and organisations within the parish throughout 2023.

As part of a voluntary, coordinated initiative over the last eight months, there has been a notable growth in defibrillator coverage.

Sites have risen from ten to more than 40 across the five villages and hamlets of the St Agnes Parish, significantly improving the provision for around 10,000 residents plus numerous seasonal visitors.

The European Resuscitation Council reports that the South West has, on average, 7.2 defibrillators per 10,000 people whereas St Agnes Parish now counts around six times that regional average.

This improves immediate emergency care for everybody residing or visiting the parish.

Councillor Paul Kimberley of the St Agnes Ward said: "This wonderful coverage has only been achievable by the enormous generosity and engagement of people within our community, alongside the collaboration of fundraisers, organisations and businesses who have kindly supported the project."

Falmouth Packet: Sites have increaed from 10 to over 40 across St Agnes Parish

The initiative was undertaken in line with the 'British Heart Foundation - Defibrillators' and the charity 'London Hearts'.

Both organisations have been working to encourage communities to increase its coverage of Community Access Defibrillators.

The British Heart Foundation maintains the sole UK Government recognised National Defibrillator Database, named ‘The Circuit', which is accessed by emergency services through 999.

While 'London Hearts' are a recognized supplier of defibrillators under a Department of Health & Social Care scheme.

An end of year report has since been issued to the council and general public, with the aim for it to inspire further development and coverage for other communities, businesses and organisations.