A CHARITY has funded life-saving equipment at Airedale Hospital.

Airedale New Venture, which raises cash on behalf of the hospital, has donated more than £20,000 to buy 25 new crash trolleys.

The trolleys, used during medical emergencies and cardiac arrests on the wards, carry drugs and equipment such as defibrillators and oxygen tanks.

Maureen Anderton, resuscitation officer at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said: "The new crash trolleys are a big improvement on the previous ones, as they are now standardised across the hospital. Every trolley is equipped identically so the crash team can access equipment and drugs quickly and efficiently, which improves our response to patients in an emergency.

“We also use the trolleys in simulation training for staff, to help them manage this type of emergency and ensure they are familiar with the equipment and its use. All clinical staff receive the training annually.”

Mike Yates, chairman of Airedale New Venture, said the charity was delighted to provide the funds.

"The trolleys are an important piece of equipment and a great addition to the wards," he added.

"They will enable staff to respond to emergencies in a speedier and more efficient way.”