The Rutland Arms Hotel in Newark, Nottinghamshire is fundraising for a new defibrillator after pub landlord David Potter suffered a heart attack
A near tragedy has inspired positive action from the owners of a pub as they look to make a difference to their community.
David and Natasha Potter are raising money for a defibrillator after David suffered a heart attack at their home above the Rutland Arms Hotel, Newark.
Natasha was told to fetch the nearest defibrillator, which was either at the Odeon cinema or in the Market Place, but she didn’t want to leave her husband.
"There was a chance of him deteriorating while I was running across the market square to get a machine. He could have collapsed by the time I got back,” said Natasha.
Fortunately, David has now recovered and the pair are embarking on a fundraising mission.
They have launched a fundraising campaign to buy a defibrillator for near the pub on Barnbygate.
Survival rate following a cardiac arrest out of hospital jumps from 7% to 64% with the use of a defibrillator.
The device delivers an electric shock to someone in cardiac arrest.
The pub is now looking to raise £2,500 for a defibrillator and they are also exploring grants to keep costs down.
The funding will also provide training and help maintain the machine.
David woke up at 2am and, although in pain, initially didn’t recognise it as a heart attack.
"It got worse and worse, sweat was dripping off me and I couldn't move,” he said, "I knew it was bad and I am normally reticent about this kind of thing but I said to Natasha to call an ambulance.”
The ambulance arrived within minutes and took him to Lincoln County Hospital where he had a stent fitted.
He is now recovering at home.
"It has changed my outlook on everything, nothing is guaranteed in life,” David said.
The pub’s annual fundraising Christmas jumper party, organised by Chrissy and Lee Townrow, will this year go to the defibrillator appeal.
It takes place at the pub on December 8 and will feature a disco with DJ Trigg, a buffet, and a raffle.
"The response has been incredible," said David.
"People are buying tickets who can't attend on the day but they still want to support."
Tickets are selling out fast, as the word is getting around.
"Our regulars have been fantastic and got right behind it, the pub has a lovely family atmosphere.
"I am lucky that I have had the support of family and friends, I am slowly on the mend.
"We are going to involve the surrounding shops around here as well because it will give people peace of mind.
"If one person can be saved because of the new defibrillator then the efforts will be worth it."
A Gofundme has been set up and the pub will also have donation containers on the bar.
