A CAMPAIGN to install defibrillators throughout Aireborough and Wharfedale is proving successful.

A total of 33 are now in place in target areas.

The initiative was launched by Brian Firth in 2013 after the death of a customer at Guiseley Morrisons.

Mr Firth, who is a volunteer community first responder with Yorkshire Ambulance Service, set out to install community public access defibrillators (CPADs) in Aireborough and parts of Wharfedale.

Mr Firth, who is also the founder of Guiseley-based Global First Aid Services, said: "It is a proven fact that if a person goes into cardiac arrest, their chances of survival are substantially increased when a defibrillator is readily available.

"The value of this life-saving equipment was proven when local councillor Ryk Downes recently collapsed in cardiac arrest whilst out running. Bystanders commenced CPR and used the nearby campaign defibrillator, thankfully shocking his heart back into a normal rhythm."

Mr Firth said the campaign targeted Horsforth, Yeadon, Guiseley, Ilkley, Otley and Pool-in-Wharfedale – none of which had CPADs at that time. It was a major boost when Yorkshire Ambulance Service agreed to install a CPAD into each of the areas.

Since then, Brian has pestered local charity groups, businesses and parish councils for additional funding.

As well as the 33 CPADs, there are also two on order and funding for a further three for the Bramhope and Adel area from Leeds City Council's Outer North West Community Committee.

The campaign has also received funding from Guiseley Lions, Otley Lions, Otley BID and Aireborough Soroptimists. The British Heart Foundation has also donated several CPADs.

Mr Firth added: "Stuart Andrew MP has been a staunch supporter of the campaign since day one, and it is now also receiving support from councillors, the most notable ones being Peter Jackson and Paul Wadsworth, with Graham Latty also becoming involved.

"Ryk Downes and his wife, Bev, are looking forward to assisting the campaign once he is fully recovered."

Guiseley Scouts and Guides are fundraising for a CPAD outside their premises, with Scout leader, Keith Park, preparing to take part in the London Marathon.

Residents have already donated £600, and the fund is also being swelled with donations of £450 from staff and customers of the Ings Hotel and £500 from the Airecentre Pacers. Brian said the Scouts are now only £150 short of their target, and he asked people to continue with their support as any surplus money raised will go towards the next defibrillator.

Visit facebook.com/groups/PublicAccessDefibrillators for more details.