A FITTING legacy to a community champion was installed on Saturday at South Reading Community Hub.

Friends and family gathered in Whitley to unveil a new defibrillator in memory of Matthew Farrall, who suffered a sudden heart attack and died in April.

Fellow members of the Whitley Community Development Association (CDA) raised more than £3,000 after setting their sights on a public access device.

Trisha Bennet, who spearheaded the fundraising campaign, said: "Matthew was such an important part of the community and this is a very practical way of remembering him.

"I hope it is something that we never have to use, but it is important that we are prepared. I think his death showed us that we could do more to be prepared for this type of situation.

"Hearstart Swallowfield were brilliant throughout this process. They allowed us to get a discount for this first defibrillator and they came down on Saturday to give demonstrations to people."

Friends of Mr Farrall say the defibrillator will be a fitting legacy 'in the heart of the community for the heart of the community' and there are plans to install other devices in Whitley.

The 49-year-old, who was born and bred in Whitley, was walking home on April 20 when he suffered a heart attack.

As well as being a keen writer and active member of Whitley CDA, Mr Farrall will be remembered for his passion for the town and his fondness for Reading F.C.

The lifelong Royals supporter saw his first match in 1975 and was honoured with a minute's applause during the 49th minute of the final home game of last season.

Ms Bennet added; "The centre houses the Whitely Museum and is becoming a focal point for local tales and legends.

"It is a fitting place for a defibrillator and will be a tribute for Matthew and the hard work he put into helping the museum.

"Very soon after his death we knew that we had to do something and I think he would have wanted something practical that would benefit others.

"We have been very deliberate about spending extra money on a public access defibrillator and we want to be able to educate as many people as possible about how to use them."