A LIFE-saving defibrillator has been donated to Redditch Golf Club by local housebuilder Barratt Homes West Midlands in memory of an employee who passed away earlier this year.

Sue Hutchinson was a keen golfer and a plaque is being produced in her honour to sit above the automated external device (AED) which will be located in the clubhouse.

Defibrillators are increasingly being made available in public places and can significantly increase the chances survival of someone suffering a cardiac arrest.

According to the British Heart Foundation, every minute without CPR and defibrillation reduces the chances of survival by 10 per cent, so being able to act quickly is crucial.

Club captain Tom Sheldon said: "We’re extremely grateful to Barratt West Midlands for the donation, which will allow us to help our members either on the course or in the clubhouse should they need it.

"We are one of just three clubs out of 37 in the Worcestershire Union which have a defibrillator. Hopefully we’ll now be able to spearhead an effort to get more clubs in a position to be able to provide an AED.”

Graydon Worthing, sales director at Barratt Homes West Midlands, a keen golfer himself, said; "When Redditch Golf Club approached us about donating a defibrillator we instantly recognised its importance and did not hesitate to get involved.

"You don’t really think about needing one whilst on the course, but should you fall ill out there and need help quickly a defibrillator could mean all the difference."

For more information about Barratt Homes visit barratthomes.co.uk or call 0844 811 9933.

For more information about defibrillators, visit bhf.org.uk.