TWO sports clubs have teamed up to purchase a life-saving defibrillator for the playing field they share, after a man collapsed whilst walking his dog there.

Droitwich Spa Cricket Club and Droitwich Spa Boys and Girls Football Club split the cost of the device which has been installed at the St Peter’s Fields ground.

On a busy evening in summer 2016 during a junior cricket training session, a man was given CPR after collapsing, before being taken to hospital.

Mike Wallis, DSCC’s head of junior cricket said: “He survived but it made both clubs think what could happen if a similar incident occurred when there were less people around.”

In the event of a sudden cardiac arrest, the defibrillator delivers an electric shock to restore the heart’s rhythm – boosting the chances of survival whilst awaiting the emergency services.

“Thankfully, it happened on a busy evening and there were people present who were able to administer CPR until the air ambulance arrived, landed on the pitch and took the man to hospital,” said Mr Wallis.

“Thousands of people must use St Peter’s Fields – not only both clubs’ own playing members and the various visiting teams – but other Droitwich residents for their own recreational use.”

The park is a popular thoroughfare for dog walkers, parents and children attending St Peter’s School, parishioners of St Peter’s Church, as well as by people as a route into town or the nearby Lido.

Easy-to-use, defibrillators guide the operator through the life-saving process with a series of prompts and commands.

Although training isn’t required to operate the defibrillator, the clubs are planning to stage some sessions in the clubhouse to show how it is used.

It is hoped townsfolk who use the area regularly might like to attend.

Nick West, vice-chairman for the football club, said: “Hopefully no-one will ever have to call upon the defibrillator, but some reassurance can now be provided by the fact that it is there if needed and could potentially save lives.

“If anyone would like to make a donation towards its cost, no matter how big or small, these will be gratefully received.

“The clubs can then recoup some of their funds used to buy the defibrillator and put it back towards providing sporting opportunities for people of all ages and abilities in Droitwich.”

To make a donation, email chairman@droitwichspafc.org.uk.