Defibrillator stolen in Robertsbridge

A defibrillator was stolen and later dumped in a truck in Robertsbridge.
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The life-saving piece of equipment, located in Brightling Road between the railway crossing and Mill Rise, disappeared last Thursday (March 26).

An appeal for information was then launched on Facebook before the item was found by workmen the next day discarded on the back of their truck.

The incident was also reported to police.

The defibrillator was found discarded in the back of a truck SUS-200304-105541001The defibrillator was found discarded in the back of a truck SUS-200304-105541001
The defibrillator was found discarded in the back of a truck SUS-200304-105541001
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Gary Spray, one of the community first responders for the area, said: “It’s fabulous that the defibrillator was returned but in the current climate it’s even more imperative that these defibrillators are kept in their locations in a time of need.

“After an appeal on Facebook reaching over 13,000 people the defibrillator was found the following day dumped. After being checked it was returned to its location ready to be used when required, thanks to Matthew Moat, of Moat Osteopaths.

“The defibrillator was put in to place in September 2019 and made possible by Robertsbridge Jazz Club, Robertsbridge Parish Council and Hurst Green & District Community First Responders, and we thank them all for making it possible.

“This is now the fourth defibrillator to be placed in Robertsbridge with the others located at the Salehurst Halt, outside Senlac Vets, and inside the train station ticket office.”

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Speaking about last Thursday’s incident, a South East Coast Ambulance Service spokesman said: “This was a mindless act which put lives at risk.

“Public access defibrillators are vital in saving lives in the community and are more important than ever at this time when we are facing additional pressure due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“We hope that whoever is responsible realises how reckless their actions were.”