Police officer raises funds in memory of colleague

PC Nick Lingham raised money to purchase three defibrillators in memory of his late colleague and friend, PC Adrian Debnam

Three defibrillators have been installed across Maidstone after a police officer cycled nearly double the length of the River Thames and raised more than £3,000.

PC Nick Lingham, alongside 20 others including colleagues and friends, cycled more than 360 miles in 12 hours to raise funds for the life-saving equipment, inspired by his late colleague and friend, PC Adrian Debnam.

Mr Lingham said: "Adrian and I often used to cycle the river Medway towpath and discuss how the area could be improved by the addition of 24/7 defibrillators for medical emergencies.

"Unfortunately, Adrian passed away before we had chance to put our plan in action together, so I decided to carry it out in his memory, with the help of the community."

The officer initially set about cycling 215 miles to raise £2,500 for two defibrillators to be placed along the River Medway towpath between East Farleigh and Aylesford.

The event, held at at a gym in Kent's county town, saw those involved cycle nearly double their target distance and the additional money raised has enabled them to purchase a third defibrillator.

The money has also been used to provide each device with three sets of pads and a new battery.

The new units have been installed along the riverbanks near Allington Locks, Mill Meadow, and Fairmeadow.

Maidstone Borough Council will continue funding the running costs, and three businesses have agreed to cover the annual electricity costs for their local unit.

Mr Lingham added: "I would like to thank everyone for their help and generous donations."