Defibrillators restore the heart's rhythm to normal

It is the first of a number of schemes being introduced across Suffolk.

Tim Granville, one of the new volunteers in Needham Market, believes the new scheme is very important.

The new scheme has introduced new medical equipment and involves training villagers to assist suspected cardiac victims before an ambulance arrives.

Trained people

"The village now has its own 'defibrillator' - a device which gives an electric shock to try to get the heart back to normal rhythm," Mr Granville said.

"Villagers are to be made aware of people trained in defibrillator operation and they can be called in as soon as an emergency alert is made.

"These trained local people can be called to the scene before paramedic crews arrive," Mr Granville added.

Katherine Peel from the British Heart Foundation (BHF) said: "When we meet people whose lives have been saved by defibrillators, we learn that their value is priceless.