TENS of thousands of pounds have been earmarked by council chiefs to install lifesaving defibrillators across East Renfrewshire.

A total of 23 devices will be put in place, with members of the public able to access them 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for use in an emergency if someone suffers a cardiac arrest.

East Renfrewshire Council is investing £25,000 in the project, following discussions with the Levern Valley Defibrillator Partnership to ensure the devices are located as effectively as possible.

Councillor Tony Buchanan, leader of the local authority, said: “I am delighted that 23 defibrillators will be installed throughout the local area during the coming weeks.

“These machines are the first to be put in place by the council, benefitting local residents with round-the-clock access to equipment if someone suffers a cardiac arrest.

“The installation of the defibrillators will be vital to our local area, potentially making a difference in helping to save a life.”

Defibrillators will be installed at a number of council offices, including those in Barrhead, and the local authority’s Eastwood headquarters.

Elsewhere in Barrhead, they will be available at Carlibar Primary School, Cross Arthurlie Primary School, Barrhead Community Museum, the Johnny Kelly Pavilion at Cowan Park and St Andrew’s House, in Cross Arthurlie Street.

In Neilston, a device will be located at the Glen Halls.

People who visit Rouken Glen Park, in Giffnock, will also be able to access defibrillators at the Picnic Pavilion and the Boaters Café, with further devices being put in place across the area at Huntly Pavilion, Muirend Pavilion, Netherlee Pavilion, Woodfarm Sports Pavilion, Thorntree Hall, Duff Hall, Montgomery Hall, Fairweather Hall and Mearns Library.

Read the latest from the Barrhead News