Defibrillators have been installed in food stores in Wells and Cromer as part of an ambitious scheme by the Co-op to install the lifesaving equipment in a number of their stores and funeral homes.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Defibrillators are now in place at over 300 Central England Co-operative food stores and funeral homes across the country. Picture: Central England Co-operativeDefibrillators are now in place at over 300 Central England Co-operative food stores and funeral homes across the country. Picture: Central England Co-operative (Image: Archant)

In total the Central England Co-operative has installed 20 defibrillators across Norfolk and Suffolk and it has been made possible thanks to the funds raised from the five pence carrier bag charge.

Where possible, the life saving equipment has been fitted to the outside of the buildings giving the community access to them 24 hours a day.

Martyn Cheatle, Central England Co-operative chief executive, said: “Sudden Cardiac Arrest is one of the UK’s biggest killers and, after listening to the concerns of customers, members and partners, we wanted to help tackle the issue by getting more life-saving equipment into communities where it can save lives.”

He added the community response has been “amazing”.