Heart scare prompts defib for martial arts school

Rob Lock said the incident was a shock to the system but he could not wait to return to the academy

A martial arts academy is installing a defibrillator after its owner's life was saved by one of the devices borrowed from a fast food restaurant.

Rob Lock had been training at his friend's martial arts school, Wombourne Legacy BJJ, when he suffered a cardiac episode during class.

He said an instructor performed CPR on him for about 20 minutes before the restaurant's defibrillator was used, with paramedics later taking him to hospital.

Mr Lock, who owns Rob Locks' Martial Arts Academy, Dudley, described waking up in hospital and being diagnosed with coronary heart disease (CHD) as a "real shock to the system".

"I'm so grateful that I was in company with people who got down to do CPR, if I'd been at home it could have been a lot worse," he said.

'Can't wait to get back'

Mr Lock's business partner Lena Challenor said she ordered the defibrillator straight after the incident to help save lives.

"It's really highlighted the need to protect our 400 members, their families and help the community as well," she said.

Mr Lock, who has competed and trained around the world, said he had had no similar experiences in the 50 years his academy has been open.

Now recovering at home, he said his return to the academy in the next few weeks would be emotional, but fantastic.

"I've received hundreds of cards and warm wishes. I cannot wait to get back to what I do," Mr Lock said.

The defibrillator will be installed inside his academy, but will be available for the public to use, especially during weekends and evenings when medical centres are closed, Ms Challenor said.