A SCHEME to curb the number of deaths from heart attacks in the Durham Dales is to be launched.
The Weardale First Responders Scheme involves training teams of local people to administer life-saving treatment with heart-start machines before paramedics arrive.
The initiative means people needing urgent medical attention can receive it in the shortest possible time.
The scheme will be launched in Stanhope on Saturday, May 11.
Money has been raised for three defibrillators thanks to local fundraising and a grant from the British Heart Foundation. The machines will be deployed at Wolsingham, Stanhope and St John's Chapel.
A fourth will be lent to Rookhope by Northumbria Ambulance Service.
The ambulance service will also train volunteers to use the equipment, and teach them mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and heart massage, and re-assess them every nine weeks.
Charles Lovell, from Wolsingham, is one of the first responders to be trained.
He said: "The area that the First Responder Scheme will cover is quite secluded and deep into the countryside. We want as many volunteers as we can."
Anyone wishing to volunteer can attend the launch at Stanhope Church Hall, at 11am, or call (01388) 528555
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