AN AMATEUR dramatics society has had a genie-us idea for raising money for life-saving equipment.

Neuadd Dyfi is hosting the Aberdyfi Players as they perform their latest pantomime, Aladdin.

The troupe are spearheading a new appeal to see a defibrillator installed at the village hall in Aberdyfi and are working with the heart charity for Wales, Calonnau Cymru/Welsh Hearts to raise the £1,500 required.

Des George, who is chair of the Neuadd Dyfi Trustees, said: “We have over 25,000 people using the hall every year, it is a fantastic facility but it is important that we also think about the welfare of our users.

“This defibrillator will be available for those using the hall and for the local community as well.

"I recall a defibrillator being required further along the coast road and they had to travel to Aberdyfi Fire Station to collect it.

"In that particular situation, we would have been closer and could have potentially saved a life.”

Nick Aitken, who is the north Wales business and fund-raising manager for Welsh Hearts, said: “We are delighted that the Aberdyfi Players are taking on such an initiative and donating raffle proceeds to start the campaign.

“Currently, chances of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest in Wales are very low, this something we are trying to change by helping communities install a defibrillator and giving residents free CPR training.

“I know they always put on a great show and we are grateful for their support and I wish them every success.”

The pantomime, which has a lot of local talent, starts on Friday, 26 January.