'Shocked and disappointed' – Evanton group appeal for safe return of missing defibrillator

Directors of a community wood in Easter Ross were left 'shocked and disappointed' after a vital piece of life-saving equipment went missing at the weekend.

Evanton Wood Community Company (EWCC) first discovered that its 'vital' community defibrillator, usually situated at the Chapel entrance to the wood, had disappeared on Saturday, July 8.

The device, which is used to help save the life of someone experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest, was only installed in March of this year, after the group received funding from the Life Changes Trust.

It is not known whether the AED (automated external defibrillator) has been stolen, or taken to be used in an emergency without being returned.

A plea from the group on social media has asked for the equipment's safe return, "no questions asked".

Adrian Clark, secretary of Evanton Wood Community Company said: "The directors are shocked and disappointed at the disappearance of the defibrillator. It has only been in position, at the entrance to the woods since March this year.

"We would implore anyone who knows the whereabouts of this vital life-saving piece of equipment to ensure it is returned to us without delay."

The group has confirmed that the disappearance of the equipment has been reported to Police Scotland.

Members of the public with information on its whereabouts are encouraged to contact Evanton Wood Community Company on 07927 049930.