DO you know what a defibrillator is? And would you know where to find one or what to do with it if you did?

It is a very useful device that delivers a therapeutic dose of electrical energy to a human heart affected by life-threatening conditions, such as cardiac dysrhythmia or pulseless ventricular tachycardia.

Charlotte Yoxall, a local mum, has a nine-year-old daughter who would benefit from such a vital public utility, but when she asked the Arrhythmia Alliance for details of the nearest one, there was no record of one in Thurrock.

In fact there are very few in Essex. Some of us feel we should do something about that!

The Alliance has offered to donate a defibrillator to Stanford-le-Hope provided we can raise the £1,500 needed for the lockable vandal-proof cabinet that houses it.

So far Charlotte has raised £840 and is running an event at Treetops School, where she works.

If you want to help you can donate via www.justgiving/charlotte-yoxall2 or call into Special Occasions Bridal Shop, in King Street.

And why stop there? I bet your community could do with one too. The people of Thurrock have big hearts – and generous ones too.

Drop me a line or contact the Hope Committee or your local forum if you want to know more.

Have a heart? Let’s give Charlotte and others like her the boost they need!