Thatcham defibrillator taken out of service after being damaged

Police appeal for witnesses

A DEFIBRILLATOR at Thatcham Memorial Hall has been taken out of service after the casing was damaged on Tuesday (November 15).

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident of criminal damage which occurred between 6pm and 10pm.

The potentially life-saving piece of equipment had been supplied by Heart Start and was located on the external wall of the hall in Bath Road.

PC Natalie Cox, of Newbury Police Station, said: "There is a large crack to the casing with an estimated damage cost of £700.

"This has meant the defibrillator has had to be taken out of service, essentially endangering other peoples' lives.

"We are appealing for witness that may have heard or seen the incident to come forward.”

Anyone with information should contact the Thames Valley Police Enquiry Centre on 101, quoting reference number 43160321214.

If you do not want to speak to the police directly you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.