Preston Parkrun returns this weekend after damaged defibrillator is replaced with help from local charity Galloway's

Parkrun will return to Preston this weekend after last week's event was called off due to a flood-damaged defibrillator.
Parkrun returns to Avenham and Miller Parks this weekend (weather permitting) after local sight loss charity Galloway's loaned the event a defibrillatorParkrun returns to Avenham and Miller Parks this weekend (weather permitting) after local sight loss charity Galloway's loaned the event a defibrillator
Parkrun returns to Avenham and Miller Parks this weekend (weather permitting) after local sight loss charity Galloway's loaned the event a defibrillator

It had been forced to cancel last Saturday's run after a defibrillator in Avenham Park had been damaged in flooding during Storm Ciara.

It’s a Parkrun requirement that all events have access to a defibrillator and with the life-saving kit out of commission, organisers had no option but to call it off.

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The park's defibrillator has yet to be repaired, but Parkrun has been given a lifeline with the help of a local sight loss charity.

Galloway's Society for the Blind has stepped in to get the community event back up and running by loaning one of its own defibrillators.

Simon Booth, chairman of Galloway’s, said: "As a local community organisation, we were more than happy to show our support to a well loved event which promotes health and well-being.

"We offer our own varied programme of activities and know how important community events like this are to people, including those who are partially sighted and enjoy getting involved in the run.

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"It would have been a shame to see such a much loved event cancelled yet again and we are always actively seeking opportunities to work with other organisations within the community.

"As we have no activities running on Saturdays, we saw an opportunity to offer out our defibrillator to another organisation that can benefit the Preston community.

"We wish all the runners good luck and hope they continue to enjoy such a well attended event."

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Preston Parkrun cancelled after life-saving defibrillator is damaged in Storm Ci...

Volunteer Parkrun organisers confirmed that the generous offer would enable them to resume their weekly runs.

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"We're back this Saturday (weather permitting)," said a spokesman for Parkrun.

"We have been busy finding a replacement defibrillator and I'm pleased to say that we have a solution, so we will be back for the 22nd.

"A big thank you to Galloway's Society for the Blind who have stepped in, in our hour of need, to loan us a defibrillator for the next few weeks whilst the one at the park is relocated."

Preston City Council said it could cost around £1,000 to replace the flood-damaged defibrillator.

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"We are in contact with the defibrillator suppliers about the extent of the damage caused by the flood," said a Council spokesman.

"If a replacement unit is required, one would be provided to us on loan in the interim.

"The cost to replace is in the region of £1,000."

Parkrun has warned participants that the outside toilet block in Avenham Park remains closed following the recent flooding.

But it said runners will still have access to the single toilet outside the Pavilion Cafe.

If you have sight loss and would like to find out more about the various activities Galloway’s offers, call 01772 744148.