Brecon Phoenix Boxing Club has received a potentially lifesaving boost thanks to a generous grant from Mitchell Associates Chartered Accountants, the Brecon-based accounting firm.

The club was selected as the very first recipient of Mitchell Associates’ new defibrillator grant initiative, aimed at supporting local community organisations.

The newly installed defibrillator is now positioned outside the boxing club, accessible to both club members and the wider public in the event of an emergency. It has also been fully registered with the national defibrillator network, ensuring that emergency services can direct 999 callers to the device whenever needed.

Defibrillators play a crucial role in saving lives during cardiac emergencies, significantly increasing survival rates when used promptly. It is a device that gives a jolt of energy to the heart, helping get the heart beating again when someone is in cardiac arrest and their heart has stopped. Anyone can use a defibrillator. You do not need training. Once you turn it on, it will give clear step-by-step voice instructions.

Volunteers at Brecon Phoenix Boxing Club say the device is an invaluable addition - not only for those who train at the club, but for the surrounding community as well.

“We are extremely grateful to Mitchell Associates for choosing us as the first recipient of their defibrillator grant,” said Zoë Horne from the club.

“This equipment could make the difference between life and death, and we’re proud to help make our community a safer place.”

Mitchell Associates’ new grant programme aims to support local groups by funding and placing publicly accessible defibrillators throughout the area.

James Mitchell presented the defibrillator to Club coaches Dave Gilbert and Zoë Horne.

Brecon Phoenix Boxing Club encourages residents to familiarise themselves with the device’s location and stresses the importance of swift action in emergency situations.