A Teignmouth-based charity is asking residents to spare just over an hour to learn how to save someone’s life.

Teign Heartbeat is offering free awareness sessions in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillator use later this month.

The sessions, which take place on Saturday January 24 at the Richard Newton Hall in Teignmouth, are being provided by local fireman Jamie White, who teaches the skills to fellow firemen.

Jamie is ‘an excellent trainer and will show you the basics’, commented Teign Heartbeat founder and chair Shirely Brokenshaw.

‘By the time you go home you should be familiar with using CPR and how to use a defibrillator,’ she added.

The charity is running two sessions: the first will run from 12 noon until 1.15pm and the second session starts at 1.30pm and finishes at 2.45pm. Those being trained will be able to practice on several ‘Annie’ resuscitation dolls and on some training defibrillators.

The sessions are open to anyone and there is no need to book. People wishing to attend should just turn up to the Richard Newton Hall on Higher Buckeridge Road in Teignmouth.

While there’s no need to bring anything with you, trainees may wish to bring a cushion to kneel on and some water. Attendees are also encouraged to bring any unwanted gifts or items that can be used for the table-top sale and tombola.

‘All donations go to further community defibrillators and maintenance,’ Shirley said. ’Nothing goes on admin,’ she added. ‘We are all volunteers.’

Shirley was inspired to set up Teign Heartbeat after a gentleman passed away in the town centre shortly after she moved to Teignmouth 15 years ago.

After realising, a defibrillator may have saved his life, she decided to do her bit and raise the money needed to buy a defibrillator and cabinet.

Since then, Teign Heartbeat has installed 17 defibrillators in Teignmouth and many more across Teignbridge.