SOUTHEND seafront is set to benefit from an extra four defibrillators thanks to charitable donations.

Leigh and Thorpe Bay rotary clubs and the Carli Lansley Foundation have donated, installed and will continue to maintain the defibrillators on a monthly basis.

The donations will ensure seafront visitors have access to the life-saving equipment 24 hours a day.

It comes after Denmark’s star player, Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest where his heart stopped on the pitch at Saturday’s game.

It’s been suggested that the four new defibrillators will be installed at Roberto’s, the Beach Zuhahai cafes, Anglian Water Board building and the Thames Estuary Yacht Club.

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Martin Terry, cabinet member for public protection, said: “With the great weather we are having, we know that many residents and visitors will be out and about making use of our towns attractive seafront and facilities, and this is why it’s important to have these additional safety measures in place.

“On behalf of the Council and the residents of the town, I would like to give thanks to the Carli Lansley Foundation, and Leigh and Thorpe Bay Rotary Clubs for their joint effort in providing and maintaining the defibrillators, in order to keep Southend’s residents and visitors safe.”

Ron Price, member of Leigh Rotary Club said: “Our project began in January 2020 and the first four defibrillators were fitted during last year. We are now in a position to complete the installation of the remaining four. Regular maintenance will ensure they remain in full working order. We are delighted to have provided the Borough with added safety on the seafront and thank the Council for their cooperation throughout the project. Our defibrillators will be available for public use 24 hours a day.

“The importance of defibrillators was demonstrated on Saturday 12 June, in the Euro Cup match involving Denmark, their star player, Christian Eriksen, suffered a cardiac arrest on the pitch and his heart stopped. He is alive today due to the quick work of the medics, officials and players and use of a defibrillator which restarted his heart. We want to make sure that defibrillators are available should anyone need it. Our thoughts are with Christin Enriksen and his family and hope he makes a speedy recovery.”