Twenty-six new defibrillators will be installed across Cumbria, thanks to the county’s Freemasons.
Cumberland & Westmorland Freemasons have donated £32,000 to install the life-saving kit outside each of their buildings in the region.
Once installed, these devices will be available 24/7, offering vital emergency support to local communities and helping improve survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.
This initiative was inspired by Bill Morley, of Cleator Moor, who is also raising funds to install defibrillators in memory of his late son Billy.
Both projects will include a memorial tribute in Billy’s name.
Keith Beaumont, of Cumbria Freemasons, said: “This is a powerful example of Freemasons making a difference in their communities.
“We’re providing a life-saving resource not just for our members, but for the wider public across Cumbria.”
The donation has been made to the North West Ambulance Charity, making Cumberland & Westmorland the first Masonic province in the UK to install defibrillators on all their buildings.
Megan Stephenson, community resuscitation engagement officer for the North West Ambulance Service, said: “My role focuses on improving survival rates from cardiac arrests outside of hospitals, and many rural areas in Cumbria lack easy access to defibrillators.
“Installing these 26 defibrillators will immediately improve coverage in underserved areas.
“This is a trailblazing project that will save lives. Huge congratulations to everyone involved!”
