A new defibrillator has been installed in Halstead High Street.

The League of Friends of Halstead Hospital raised the £1,995 for the life saving equipment at a quiz, with Barclay’s Bank agreeing to double the amount raised.

There are currently no other defibrillators in the High Street - the nearest one being available in the Co-op in Abels Road or at Halstead Hospital in Hedingham Road.

It was installed on the side of the Saffron Building Society building, in High Street, Halstead, on Friday.

Jackie Pell, chairman of the League of Friends, said: “We wanted to buy a defibrillator after a lady collapsed in the high street and with the hill, we wanted to have something there.

“The League of Friends held a quiz to raise the money.

“We are very committed to health care for Halstead and see this as an extension of the services provided by the hospital.”

Membership forms for the League of Friends can be picked up at the Elizabeth Courtauld GP Surgery, in Factory Lane West, or at Halstead Hospital, in Hedingham Road.