PRIMARY schools have been given a boost of life-saving equipment thanks to a generous donation from a Bolton charity.

Bolton Lions has so far given defibrillators to St Peter and St Paul’s RC Primary School and St Michael’s CE Primary School in Great Lever, Johnson Fold Community Primary School and St Paul’s CE Primary School in Astley Bridge.

Lions members have been presenting the defibrillators with the help of the Bolton Wanderers Community Trust, which has also given training to teachers in how to use the equipment.

Jeff Hartley, Lions public relations officer, said: “These defibrillators save lives which is why feel it is so important for every school to have one in Bolton.

“We have managed to raise thousands of pounds thanks to the generosity of people supporting our appeals and campaigns. We plan to continue to boost funds for defibrillators in Bolton.”

Last year, The Bolton News launched the Every School Leaver A Lifesaver campaign by joining forces with Bolton West MP Julie Hilling to promote the teaching of emergency life-saving skills.

Ms Hilling was inspired to start her campaign after former Bolton player Fabrice Muamba collapsed on the pitch during an FA Cup match at Tottenham Hotspur and was resuscitated by medical staff after his heart had stopped beating.

The Wanderers’ Hearts and Goals initiative plans to increase the numbers of accessible defibrillators and emergency life-saving skills training across the region.

Wanderers’ Hearts and Goals has helped to distribute 50 defibrillators throughout the North West.