THOUSANDS of pounds have been pledged to ensure more life-saving defibrillators are spread throughout Dumbarton and the Vale.

At a recent meeting of the full West Dunbartonshire Council, a motion was approved for £50,000 to be set aside from free reserves to ensure there is a “good geographical spread” of automatic external defibrillators (AED) through the local authority.

The motion received unanimous backing as both Labour and the SNP have promoted the devices after community campaigns delivering them to schools and other public buildings.

Councillor Marie McNair, who tabled the motion, said: “We all know the serious levels of heart disease and we all know people affected by this and the impact of access to these machines.

“It’s really important to take ownership of this issue – we know it saves lives.”

Cllr Gail Casey added: “I really welcome the progress that has been made. This is money well spent.”

The funding overturns the recommendation of council officers to put “on hold further funding” and will consult with councillors McNair and Danny Lennie on ensuring a good provision of AEDs.

The motion adds: “From this funding, council agrees that where there is no provision, there should be in the interests of community well-being/safety, AEDs in council-run buildings, ie school estates, care homes, leisure facilities including libraries and community centres. Council also notes that any funding agreed in addition to this will be part of the 2018/19 budget setting.”