A GOLF club’s seniors section has raised funds to buy a potential lifesaver.

Members at Eaglescliffe Golf Club have raised money for the automatic external defibrillator so help will be at hand in the event of a heart attack.

With almost 1,000 members, over 300 visitors a year and 15,000 rounds of golf being played each year, and the furthest part of the course almost a mile from the clubhouse, the club took advice from the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS).

They advised the club to install a defibrillator in the clubhouse and senior golfers decided to raise funds by holding local competitions and social events.

Seven club employees have been trained in how to use the defibrillators and in CPR.

Bob Everett, Club Captain at Eaglescliffe, said: “This is a significant initiative for the club and although we may never have to use the defibrillator we are now prepared. I particularly want to thank our seniors section and the NEAS for their advice, support and training.”

Adele Young, Community Resuscitation Officer for NEAS, said: “When the club came to me for some advice and support I was delighted to help. They have a high footfall, which could mean that there is a higher potential for someone to suffer a cardiac arrest. Now the club is fully prepared to help someone fast.

“It is great to see the increase in the public interest in AEDs since the incident with footballer Fabrice Muamba and more recently golfer Bernard Gallacher.

“These terrible, but life saving events have reinforced how crucial it is to have early access to defibrillators.