Damaged life-saving device removed to undergo repairs

A defibrillator that was feared to have been stolen in Bath city centre has been removed for safekeeping as it is broken.

It is understood the defibrillator in Westgate Buildings, near Tesco, went missing on Monday, February 17, if not earlier.

Chris Davies, president-elect of the Rotary Club of Bath, said the charity raised the funds to install the life-saving equipment about five years ago.

Fears were growing that it had been stolen but the council said it was removed as the lock on the defibrillator cabinet was broken.

Councillor Paul Crossley, cabinet member for Community Services, said: “Unfortunately the lock on the defibrillator cabinet at Tesco Westgate Building is broken so we’ve removed the defibrillator for safekeeping. We’re working to fix the lock and put the unit back as soon as we can. We’ve put a notice up at the site which includes advice for people to dial 999 in an emergency.

“There are other defibrillators nearby at Newark Street in Southgate’s Yellow Telephone Box or inside the branch of Bath Building Society in Wood Street.

“In Bath and North East Somerset we’ve worked with our partners on great provision of these important devices for the community and would encourage people to familiarise themselves with the location of their nearest defibrillator here.”

The council says it has been working in partnership with the Community Heartbeat Trust on installations in Bath, Radstock, Midsomer Norton, and in several villages.