Silsden people can receive training in how to use defibrillators this Saturday.

Town councillor Lawrence Walton has organised the session at St James’s Church Hall from 2.30pm to 4pm.

The initiative follows a decision by the council to buy a defibrillator for use by the public.

Town mayor Chris Atkinson said the defibrillator would have a special case so that it could be stored on the wall of St James’s Church and be available 24 hours a day.

He said: “It is important that as many people as possible learn how to use defibrillators. Luckily, they are virtually automatic.”

The two councillors recently visited Addingham, which has five public defibrillators, for emergency first aid training.

Coun Walton added: “It is important to ensure that Silsden has this important resource as it saves lives.

“Whilst the Addingham session was happening a volunteer was called out.”