A LIFESAVING campaign is being mounted by a Runcorn school.

Pupils, teachers and parents at St Mary’s CE Primary School in Castlefields are raising funds for a defibrillator.

This specialist mobile equipment can send an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm.

Around 4,000 children and young people die every year from sudden arrhythmic death.

Former pupil Rebecca Brake aged 30, a cardiac specialist nurse for Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust for nine years, is supporting the project.

Her daughter, Sophie, aged seven, attends the school.

Rebecca, of Sutton Park, said: “This is very close to my heart. I have seen first hand the success stories of patients who have been treated by a defibrillator. Timing is critical.

“Their heart can be shocked back into its usual rhythm.

“If a person goes for a long time without oxygen it can have an impact on their brain function afterwards and have a devastating effect on their quality of life.

“I want to champion St Mary’s for being so proactive.

“The whole community has taken it to their heart.”

Around £700 and raffle prizes have already been donated.

The Oliver King Foundation, launched following the death of 12-year-old schoolboy Oliver King from a cardiac arrest, has offered to provide staff training.

Head teacher June Morris said: “We are delighted by the response we have received. People have been so generous with their time and donations. It is a really worthy cause.”

A charity night is being held on Friday, December 6, at 7pm, in Halton Royal British Legion club in Halton Village. Soul and motown act The Promotions will be performing.

Tickets priced £3 are available from the club or St Mary’s.