❤️ DEFIBRILLATOR INSTALLED AND WORKING! ⚡️
Thanks to a generous donation from Aspects Holidays we reached our fundraising target. Our own community defibrillator was installed in the phone box in October.
The defibrillator was purchased from local charity, the “Ronnie Richard’s Memorial Trust”, and installed, thanks to support from Sithney Parish Council, by Crowlas-based electricians, Davey & Gilbert. Thanks also go to Mike Jenkin for making the new phone box shelving and interior ready for the defibrillator.
Former mayor of Helston, Tim Grattan-Kane, supports community defibrillators by arranging free basic AED training (hopefully in Trannack School). Anyone interested in this training please contact us at info@lowertowncornwall.org.
Thanks to everyone who has supported this project – we got there. *Meur ras.*
How the story unfolded
The Community Group recognised the condition of the old phone box, which for some years had been used as a book exchange, was in a poor state of repair. The paint was peeling badly and there was a hole in the bottom of the door. It was decided the phone box should be refurbished and developed by:
1. Installing a life-saving community defibrillator
2. Repairing the damaged door and door mechanism
3. Replacing the lettered glass panels around the top
4. Replacing the internal light and reinstating an electricity supply (necessary for the installation of the defibrillator)
Initially a Crowdfunding campaign was launched in December 2022. This raised £854.55 towards the cost of the refurbishment.
Refurbishment Process
February 2023
Work started in February. The door was expertly repaired by Michael Jenkin and other work, including removing the flaking paint, was carried out by John Jenkin. Thank you both for devoting your time to this project. Progress was documented through this series of pictures supplied by John.
March 2023
On removing the accumulation of soil at the back and side of the structure John came across some unforeseen hazards in the form of a tree trunk and power cables
In John’s words: “The tree stump refused to come quietly, but it is now out; together with its friend of many years the iron bar”.
Rust inhibitor and primer were then applied leaving the box pretty in pink. It was interesting to note the door repair was now completely invisible. Thanks Mike for doing such a brilliant job on that repair.
Looking good again in shiny red as of Tuesday 14th March.
