MUSICIANS have raised funds for a life-saving defibrillator for Earley after someone collapsed during rehearsals.

Trinity Concert Band, a symphonic wind band based in Earley, decided to raise funds for the live-saving device after a mutual friend of the band collapsed, and was revived by a defibrillator.

They began fundraising on the project soon after, gaining funds from a generous Christmas charity donation from Earley-based Power of Pilates, performing carols at the Twyford and Ruscombe Local History Society’s Christmas social, a sponsored 300km walk throughout January, proceeds from a Christmas Concert raffle, and through public donations.

Joanne Neale, of the Trinity Concert Band, said: “Recently, a member of another local music group had his life saved by a defibrillator after collapsing during a rehearsal.

“That got us thinking about what would happen if someone were taken ill at one of our own rehearsals, or indeed at our concerts.

“To that end we decided to raise money to purchase our own portable defibrillator to ensure that we are prepared for any similar worst-case incidents, to keep our members and audience safe, so that we can continue enjoying music together as part of a community.”

The group have since bought the defibrillator, intending to carry it to their next performance - whilst not in use, it is at their base at Trinity Church, Earley, where it is available to anyone using the church.

For more information on the band, visit trinityband.co.uk