Teenager hits the target for defib campaign

ATEENAGER from Widnes has reached his goal of fundraising for a community defibrillator.

Aidan Jackson, 16 challenged himself to raise enough money for defibrillators to be fitted all around Widnes.

And just months after starting the challenge, Aidan has raised enough to have his first one installed at Widnes Hall Care Home, Coronation Drive, Ditton.

He is now looking for the next place to have one installed.

Aidan told the Weekly News: “I have had several meetings with North West Ambulance Service, proposed sites for the defibrillator and local businesses so it has been a busy time.

“I am delighted to say I have now reached the total to order the first community defibrillator in coded case which is over £1,600. It has been confirmed today that the community defibrillator will be situated at Widnes Hall Care Home.”

Delivery and installation dates are not fully in place, however Aidan will be keeping people updated.

Each defibrillator will be in a coded case to protect it against vandalism and misuse. For each defibrillator and coded case it costs between £1,500 and £2,000.

He added: “We are looking for a site for the second defibrillator and are hoping that the site and community will get involved with fundraising.”

Fundraising for the life saving equipment have been a community effort. Aidan said: “I received generous donations from Glynn Andrews Car Sales, Danny Jones Defibrillator Fund, Widnes Rotary Club, Jaguar Halewood and Andrew Curphey Theatre Company.

“Simon O’Rourke Tree Carving donated a fantastic piece of craftsmanship that I auctioned and it raised £15.”

Donation points for spare change to help with raising funds for a second defibrillator can be found at: ● HomeSmart Lettings ● AlphaSmart Computers ● Appleton Chippy ● Plumb Point ● Your Baby Scan

Aidan said: “I have also had a raffle and spot the ball cards which have raised more money towards the Community Defibrillator.

“I am currently selling Christmas Eve packs and novelty Christmas Eve items and all money raised from these is going towards the second community defibrillator in coded case.”

Aidan Jackson recently made it to the North West finals of the Pride Of Brit- ain awards and is also holding his third annual Christmas carol concert fundraiser in the garden of his home in Francis Close on December 22.

Aidan is still looking for a singer or choir to add to the entertainment lineup, which includes princesses from Princess Parties Liverpool, the Warrington British Sign Language Choir and they are hoping Santa will make a visit.

There will be small stalls selling Christmas novelty items and mince pies, hot dogs, mulled wine and hot chocolate.

Everybody is welcome and all that is asked is that people make a donation on the night.

All money raised from the night will go towards the second community defibrillator.

The event is on Decem- ber 22 at Francis Close, between 5.30pm and 8.30pm.