STAFF at The Botanist have received vital training from the town’s lifesaving first responders following controversy over the defibrillator.

The new bar came under fire after removing the equipment shortly after its opening, but quickly announced that the AED would be reinstated and all staff would receive training.

Adrian Rees, chairman of the Knutsford Community First Responders Team told the Guardian that the location of the defibrillator is important to ensure that residents are never more than one minute from lifesaving equipment.

“Knutsford First Responders are delighted that this has now been fully resolved and our AED has been re-installed in the new Botanist restaurant,” he said “I would also like to thank Sara Harris and Carol Robertson for giving the Botanist staff hands-on training on how to use the AED and perform CPR.”

James Singleton, manager of The Botanist in Knutsford added: “We had a really informative training session this week to ensure our team are aware of how to use a defibrillator, as we have one located in The Botanist.

“We appreciate how much Knutsford First Responders do in our community in both training local residents on how to use defibrillators and helping to raise awareness to increase the number located in the town.

“The team enjoyed the training and they now are equipped with a highly valuable skill.”

To book on a free monthly Heartstart course, visit heartstartknutsford.co.uk or call Adrian on 01565 631324.