Defibrillator Donation for The Armstrong

"We are extremely grateful for Clive's generous donation. It is important that the venue serves the whole community, and this is another step in ensuring everyone feels safe and secure within The Armstrong walls." Jill Dimond, Trustee, Thornbury Community & Arts CIO

Clive Washbourne is a prominent Thornbury resident, well known for his neighbourliness and concern with local issues.  He first came to Thornbury in 1965, was a member of the police force and has witnessed many changes in the town over the years. Clive was very involved with the Youth Club which was at one time held here and was Treasurer for 19 years.  He has attended many events at The Armstrong in days-gone-by, given talks on diabetes to our community and even held his wife’s 60^th birthday party here.

In more recent years, Clive has been a vocal campaigner for Thornbury Town and District Residents Association and has written statements to The West of England Joint Committee on the debate surrounding the pedestrianisation of Thornbury High Street.  He has also taken a great interest in local schools and donated a public address system to Gillingstool Primary School.

So it comes as no surprise that Clive was one of the many local residents who volunteered to help at The Armstrong when it re-opened.  He feels strongly that this local facility is very much needed to help with community spirit in the town.  During his induction training at the venue, questions were raised regarding the proximity of the nearest defibrillator, and as a result of this discussion, Clive generously offered to donate one to The Armstrong.

Thanks to his great kindness and concern for public welfare, we're delighted to announce that the defibrillator is now installed.  This has been entered on the national register of AEDs and is now available to anyone who may need it. 

TCA Trustees Jill & Steve Dimond with Clive Washbourne alongside the new defibrillator

A defibrillator makes a massive difference and can double or even triple a person’s chance of surviving a cardiac arrest.  While CPR is incredibly important because it keeps blood flowing to the brain, only a defibrillator can shock the heart back into its normal beat.

We are hugely grateful to Clive for donating this very vital piece of equipment and a small ceremony was held at The Armstrong on June 20^th to thank him for his generosity.

To find out more about the importance of AEDs, head to The British Heart Foundation's website here.