Silsden people can receive training in how to use defibrillators on Saturday.

Town councillor Lawrence Walton has organised the session at St James’s Church Hall, from 2.30pm to 4pm.

The initiative follows a decision by the council to buy a defibrillator for use by the public in the town centre.

Mayor Chris Atkinson said the defibrillator would have a special case so that it could be stored on the wall of St James’s Church and be available 24 hours a day.

He said: “That case will protect it from the weather and keep the defibrillator warm so it is ready for immediate use.

“It is important that as many people as possible learn how to use defibrillators. Luckily, they are virtually automatic.”