A FUNDRAISING appeal has been launched to save lives.

Knights Grange Barn on Grange Lane in Winsford is hoping to raise £2,000 funds to buy an outdoor community defibrillator.

Husband and wife Jan and Anthony Mundy, who run the function suite, believe this specialist equipment could offer vital help to anyone in the area in the event of an emergency.

Jan said: “It was my idea. I did a first aid course and realised the importance of a defibrillator.

“We are at the centre of a big sports complex. There are 13 football pitches, an athletics club, tennis courts and will be playing golf when the course reopens.

“There are a lot of runners and people walk by constantly, some with dogs and others with their families or just for leisure and exercise."

Often described as an automated external defibrillator (AED), this small electronic device delivers an electric shock to victims of sudden cardiac arrest.

The equipment is very easy to use and gives clear spoken instructions and visual illustrations to guide people who do not need to be trained through the process with prompts and commands.

The AED analyses precisely the victim’s heart rhythm and will only deliver a shock if it is required.

Portable defibrillators have saved the lives of many adults and children who suddenly fell ill whilst playing sport.

Perhaps the most well known cardiac victim who survived thanks to a defibrillator was was 23-year-old Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba who collapsed on the pitch at White Hart Lane.

Jan, who used to run Knights Grange pub with her husband, added: “Anything can happen, time is of the essence. We plan to have the defibrillator fitted onto the wall outside the Barn so it will be available 24 hours a day.

“We are pretty central here and there are also a lot of houses nearby so anyone will be able to access the equipment.”

The Barn hosts weddings, private parties, special functions and charity events.

More than £100 has already been raised through a crowdfunding page Jan set up.

The couple, from Winsford, are also organising a retro fancy dress charity night at 7.30pm on Saturday, January 19 to boost funds.

People can step back in time and wear 70s and 80s fashion.

Generous local businesses have donated raffle prizes and The Barn is keen to hear from any other companies willing to help by offering any items, small or large.

Tickets priced £5 are available from Jan on 07732 867488.

To donate visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/janmundy14.