Branston donates defibrillators to Lincolnshire businesses

Branston, one of the UK’s leading potato suppliers, has donated Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to two Lincolnshire businesses as it looks to provide vital life-saving support to local communities in the event of an emergency.

Following several fundraising events throughout the year, the supplier has donated defibrillators to Mint Lane Café and Metheringham Gym.

It also recently hosted a training session for both businesses, facilitated by emergency care and training charity LIVES, to teach volunteers how to use the equipment and perform life-saving CPR.

According to LIVES, Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) can strike at any time. When it does, using a defibrillator has proven to be the most effective response.

For example, defibrillation within three minutes of SCA increases the chances of survival to over 70 per cent.

The latest donations are part of Branston’s ongoing support of local community initiatives, including regular donations of potatoes to both Mint Lane Café and Let Them Eat Cake, a not-for-profit organisation that helps those facing homelessness in the area.

The potato supplier will also be donating defibrillators to more organisations across the country, close to its Scotland and Somerset sites.

This includes Crewmeke Riding Stables, Ilminster Town Centre, Abernethy Tennis Club and Oudenard Community Hub in Bridge of Earn.

HR director at Branston, Simon Telfer said: “Giving back to the Lincolnshire area is very important to us at Branston, and it’s rewarding to see the results of our team’s fundraising go to such good use.

“Having access to a defibrillator can save lives in the event of an emergency, so it’s vital that local communities have access.”

He added: “Mint Lane Café and Metheringham Gym both serve as hubs for the local community and are very worthy recipients of the defibrillators.

“We’re continuing our fundraising efforts as a team at Branston and we’re looking forward to making more donations in the future.”