Local group installs third life-saving defibrillator in Combe Florey
The Combe Florey Defibrillator Group (CFDG) has helped make its Somerset village more heart-safe by fundraising for and installing a new public access defibrillator, alongside taking part in CPR and defibrillator awareness training for the local community.
The group joins Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance’s growing network of local organisations, businesses and communities dedicated to making their communities safer, and have now placed three defibrillators across the Combe Florey Parish.
Jean, a member of the CFDG said:
“We started the group in January 2023, after a parishioner called 999 to report a suspected heart attack and was advised to collect the nearest defibrillator while waiting for an ambulance. At that time, the closest device was 2.6 miles away - approximately a six-minute drive. Following discussions and the support of Combe Florey Parish Council, grant applications and donations were sourced and fundraising began.
After successful grants, donations, fundraising events and fantastic community support, in October 2023 the CFDG purchased two defibrillators from the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust’s rental scheme. In February 2026, the Parish Council donated the cost of a 3rd defibrillator to the group from available CIL funding. This help enabled the group to reach their aim of purchasing a third defibrillator from Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.
Combe Florey Parish is split into three areas, each with its own access to and from the A358. The project would not have been possible without the ongoing support of our defibrillator host sites – Combe Florey Village Hall, Holford House in Trebles Holford, and The Farmers Arms in Nethercott.
The group remains committed to maintaining the defibrillators, ensuring they are listed and remain registered on The Circuit database, providing ongoing training opportunities and securing the long-term sustainability of the project."
Supporter Engagement Officer, Charlotte Humber, delivered a successful CPR awareness session to the community at the Farmers Arms, equipping the attendees with the skills and confidence they need to act quickly in an emergency. She said:
“It was fantastic to meet members of the CFDG and their community. Their passion for keeping their community safe was inspiring. Our crew can be anywhere in Dorset and Somerset within 20 minutes, but the care a person receives before emergency services arrive can mean the difference between life and death. A huge thank you to everyone who aended the session and to the CFDG for placing such a vital piece of equipment in their community.”
