Pub's defibrillator fundraising pays off

Rob and Mel Wild with the defibrillator outside The Red Lion in Mumby.

The Batemans pub, run by Mel and Rob Wild, raised the money required to install a defibrillator on site, which is available for public access 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Rob and Mel ran several events to raise the money including a cake sale, raffles, a pancake day, and a big auction.

They were the chosen charity at the pub’s breakfast club and for the church quiz.

The funds were also boosted by donations from local community groups, and a grant from East Lindsey District Council.

The specially-designed outdoor storage box, which keeps the defibrillator at the required temperature all year, also allows access when the pub is closed.

If someone needs to use the defibrillator they can get the PIN number for the box by calling 999.

Mr Wild said: “We see ourselves as the heart of our community and want to be able to help those who live nearby in any way we can.

“This is why we were so keen to raise money for the defibrillator. We received a lot of local support for which we are very grateful.

“While we hope no-one ever needs to use it, it creates a real feeling of security for residents knowing it is there if required.”

Stuart Bateman, managing director of Batemans, added: “We’re incredibly proud of Rob and Mel. They have made the pub in to a real community pub, which has been proved by their determination to raise enough money for the defibrillator; they exemplify the community-focused attitude we like all our landlords to have.

“This will make a real difference to those in the area and we would encourage other pubs to think about doing the same.”

l Find out further details at www.theredlionmumby.co.uk or call 01507 490391.