Once installed, these devices will be available 24/7, offering vital emergency support to local communities and helping improve survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.

This initiative was inspired by one of the charity’s most passionate supporters Bill Morley of Cleator Moor, who is also raising funds to install defibrillators in memory of his late son Billy, both projects will include a memorial tribute in Billy’s name.

Head of Charity Jemma Kinch says, “We’re delighted to be able to support the fundraising of the Freemasons with this money going directly to providing them with lifesaving equipment on their buildings.

“As well as supplying defibrillators, fundraising from our other supporters also goes to other vital lifesaving work done by NWAS Community Engagement Resuscitation Officers. They help provide basic lifesaving training in local communities and provide support to owners of existing public defibs to keep them maintained and rescue ready.”

Cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the UK, with survival rates decreasing by up to 10% for every minute without intervention. Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation can more than double the chances of survival.

Megan Stephenson, NWAS Community Resuscitation Engagement Officer in Cumbria, praised the initiative: “My role focuses on improving survival rates from cardiac arrests outside of hospitals, and many rural areas in Cumbria lack easy access to defibrillators. Installing these 26 CPADs will immediately improve coverage in underserved areas. This is a trailblazing project that will save lives. Huge congratulations to everyone involved!”

Keith Beaumont, spokesman for Cumbria Freemasons, commented, “This is a powerful example of Freemasons making a difference in their communities. By taking this proactive step, we’re providing a life-saving resource not just for our members, but for the wider public across Cumbria.” The donation made to the North West Ambulance Charity, makes Cumberland & Westmorland the first Masonic province in the UK to install Community Public Access Defibrillators (CPADs) on all their buildings.