A RETRO fancy dress night is being held to help save lives.

Husband and wife Jan and Anthony Mundy, who run Knights Grange Barn on Grange Lane in Winsford, hope to raise £2,000 funds to buy an outdoor community defibrillator.

The couple believe this specialist equipment could offer vital help to anyone in the area in the event of an emergency.

Jan said: “It was my idea. I did a first aid course and realised the importance of a defibrillator.

“We are at the centre of a big sports complex. There are 13 football pitches, an athletics club, tennis courts and people will be playing golf when the course reopens.

“There are a lot of runners and people walk by constantly, some with dogs and others with their families or just for leisure and exercise."

Often described as an automated external defibrillator (AED), this small electronic device delivers an electric shock to victims of sudden cardiac arrest.

The equipment is very easy to use and gives clear spoken instructions and visual illustrations to guide people who do not need to be trained through the process with prompts and commands.

The AED analyses precisely the victim’s heart rhythm and will only deliver a shock if it is required.

Portable defibrillators have saved the lives of many adults and children who suddenly fell ill whilst playing sport.

Jan added: “Anything can happen, time is of the essence. We plan to have the defibrillator fitted onto the wall outside the Barn so it will be available 24 hours a day.

“We are pretty central here and there are also a lot of houses nearby so anyone will be able to access the equipment.”

The retro fancy dress charity night is at 7.30pm on Saturday, January 19.

People can step back in time and wear 70s and 80s fashion.

Generous local businesses have donated raffle prizes and The Barn is keen to hear from any other companies willing to help by offering any items, small or large.

Tickets priced £5 are available from Jan on 07732 867488.