STAFF and pupils at Ysgol Gymraeg y?Fenni have strengthened their bonds with the local community by purchasing a life-saving defibrillator for use at the school and in the local area.

The equipment was sourced for the school by parent and first responder Andrew Lewis, who also provided training for members of staff.

Headteacher Sarah McGuinness, was trained in first aid and the use of a defibrillator last year, and advocates that all children should be first aid trained.

The Welsh medium primary school, runs a weekly first aid club as well as ensuring that all pupils are offered first aid training as a basic skill.

“I was keen to have a defibrillator on site because although there is one at Deri View Primary there wasn’t one in this part of Mardy, “said Ms McGuinness

“Andrew Lewis kindly sourced one for us and we are now on the Abergavenny Defibrillator map - it’s there should anyone need it.

“We are very grateful to Andrew for his help in both sourcing the defibrillator and training the staff,”? she said.

“We are now looking for support to establish a defibrillator cabinet outside the school building to ensure it is accessible round the clock,” she added.