M Rushton Funeral Directors unveils new on-premise defibrillator

Funeral Partners’ M Rushton Funeral Directors has had a defibrillator installed on its premises on Marshside Road, Southport. 

It comes after the family of Trevor Christian, who the funeral provider had cared for, raised money to purchase the life-saving piece of equipment. 

The defibrillator has also been accompanied by a plaque commemorating Trevor Christian’s life. 

A defibrillator is a medical device that delivers a shock to the heart to help restore a normal rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. They are designed to be used by non-medical professionals, as quick interventions can be crucial in heart-related matters.

Southport Saviours, a charity with the aim of increasing the number of defibrillators in the local area, both installed the machine and provided the team with training on how to use it, should the need ever arise.

Michael Rushton, business principal at M Rushton Funeral Directors, said: “When we were asked by the family whether we would be happy to house the defibrillator, we were absolutely honoured. We have a good relationship with the family and are in an excellent location to improve the defibrillator coverage in Southport. 

“They are also supporters of Southport Saviours, and I know it was special for them to have it installed in Trevor’s memory. The training Southport Saviours gave us was excellent, we all learned a lot, and I would recommend it to anyone because you never know when you might need to help someone, be it a loved one or a complete stranger.”

He added: “Everyone at Rushton’s and Trevor’s family, are pleased his legacy will live on and are proud the defibrillator may save lives in the future.”