LOCALS have rallied together to raise thousands of pounds for new life-saving equipment.

Dwyfor Meirionnydd MP Liz Saville Roberts helped launch three community defibrillators on Sunday after the communities of Llanfrothen, Rhyd and Croesor raised over £6,000 in one night to fund the vital devices.

The launch followed an auction night earlier this year at the Brondanw Arms, Llanfrothen where local businesses, residents and organisations pledged support for the community initiative.

Entertainment at Sunday’s event was provided by Geraint Lovgreen, Meinir Gwilym, Gai Toms, Estella and Ed Holden, whilst Nick Aitken of heart charity Welsh Hearts provided defibrillator training and CPR. The event was also attended by the Fire Service, North Wales Police and local Mountain Rescue teams.

Mrs Saville Roberts, said: “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank local people, businesses and organisations who contributed to the fund-raising drive to purchase a defibrillator for the communities of Llanfrothen, Rhyd and Croesor.

“This achievement is testament to the hard work and commitment of local people, who took it upon themselves to campaign to raise awareness of the need for a public access defibrillator in the community.

“I’m pleased to be working alongside several community groups in my constituency and the heart charity for Wales, Welsh Hearts to fund-raise and install lifesaving defibrillators.

“It is vital that we take action to prevent any loss of life where one can be saved.

“I congratulate the organisers, volunteers and attendees for a memorable afternoon.”

Read the full story in this week’s north editions of the Cambrian News