STUDENTS and staff at Leigh College have donated two batteries for a defibrillator to Leigh United football club.

The high tech equipment is essential to maintain safety standards and is used to administer a high energy electric shock to someone who’s in cardiac arrest.

The College formed a partnership with the amateur football club in May 2018 which has flourished allowing both parties to benefit.

Students working towards a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport have volunteered to assist Leigh United's youth football teams including the under 9 Avengers, under 7 Spartans, under 7 Ninjas, under 6 Academy and under 5 Academy.

Paul Chung, club secretary and Coach for Leigh United said: “We are grateful for the donation and are excited for the future of the affiliation and the continued work with the students.”

The grassroots club doesn’t receive any funding and relies solely upon volunteers and donations to keep the club running; they are currently looking for a permanent pitch to play their matches.

Head of Sport at Leigh College, Paul Heald added: “This active partnership has allowed us to donate two defibrillator batteries to the club to ensure that the children’s safety comes first.

“My son is a football player at Leigh United and had a heart condition, so I hope it makes other parents feel secure for any emergency situations that could happen.”

Kendra Chant, Assistant Principal added: “We are delighted to support this local community football club and want to ensure the children’s safety is priority as well as our students who are gaining the experience with the local community.

“We look forward to watching our students gain skills and work their way into a coaching career.”