Callous thieves steal lifesaving defibrillator from Ribble Valley village

A fundraising appeal has since been launched to replace the "invaluable asset" to the community.

In a Facebook post, a spokesman for Ribble Valley Police, said: "We would like to make an appeal for information regarding the theft of a community defibrillator from Billington. Besides this item being an expensive piece of equipment, the fact that it could potentially save lives means it is an invaluable asset to your local community. If you know anything about this, we would urge you to contact us on 101 or alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Steve Farmer, from Langho, has set up a gofundme page to buy a replacement defibrillator. He said: "Sadly, sometime during the recent lockdown period the defibrillator was stolen from a secure cabinet in the village of Billington in Lancashire. I'm initially looking for donations from the local community of Billington and Langho and neighbouring vilages or further afield to help replace this life saving bit of kit ASAP because it would be a tragedy should the need for one arise within the village and we be found lacking. North West Ambulance Service have kindly loaned us a replacement unit until the missing unit can be replaced permanently. If you can spare a few quid to help safeguard our local residents, many of whom are old age pensioners, then it would be very much appreciated. All donations are very much appreciated."

To support the appeal, please click here