BOLTON electricals giant AO.com has donated a life-saving machine to a popular running group.

The Lostock-based online retailer gave the defibrillator to Bolton parkrun through its charity arm, AO Smile.

The device works by delivering a high energy electric shock to the heart of someone who suffering a cardiac arrest.

Bolton parkrun—a free 5k event held at Leverhulme Park every Saturday morning—was co-founded by AO.com worker Ali McArthur and friend Rowan Ardill six years ago.

Mr McArthur, who as race director is responsible for managing each run, said it was vital for event to have the correct medical equipment should an emergency occur.

He said: “With a focus on bringing the community together, our goal is to ensure the event is accessible to all regardless of ability or background.

“With the number of Bolton residents attending parkrun constantly growing, it became apparent that having access to a life-saving defibrillator was increasingly important to ensure the continued safety of the events.”

Karen Hunter, AO Smile Foundation Trustee, said the firm was delighted to get behind the popular run.

She said: “AO Smile is passionate about creating happy communities and part of our approach to achieving this is empowering employees at AO.com to support their favourite causes.

"Ali has shown considerable commitment and dedication over many years to creating a healthier and more active and Bolton through the parkrun initiative and we couldn’t be prouder to be able to support him and his army of volunteers with this gift”

About 400 runners take part in Bolton parkrun every week.

It has attracted more than 7,500 runners, joggers and walkers to date from around the Bolton area and beyond since it began in 2011.