A COMMUNITY defibrillator for an Isle of Wight sports facility has been unveiled by the Island's High Sheriff, Graham Biss.

Steve Read, a community defibrillator champion for the Island, saw his latest project unveiled outside the Shanklin County Ground Clubhouse recently.

The High Sheriff was joined at the event by Cllr Paul Brading, chair of Lake Parish Council. 

The installation of the life-saving equipment is part of the club's summer programme of renovation.

The High Sheriff said: "It's heartening to see another vital community defibrillator made available at the County Ground, which is increasingly becoming a hub for health and well being for residents and visitors to the Bay area."

Cllr Brading said: "Volunteers like Steve continue to champion much-needed community resources, with the County Ground being home to Shanklin Football Club, as well as for use for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, smoking cessation courses and healthy lifestyle projects."

Shanklin FC is also in the process of upgrading it's changing rooms, referee facilities, installing an accessible toilet and baby changing facilities, and other amenities for community use.

"Multi use of community assets, like those at the County Ground, ensures longer term viability and resilience and I look forward to returning when the next phase of the project is finished," the High Sheriff added.