AN AYR charity has hailed the installation of a lifesaving defibrillator outside its offices in the town. 

Ayr Housing Aid Centre (AHAC), in the town's York Street, has been providing free independent housing information, advice, advocacy and engagement services since 1986.

The charity had purchased the device back in 2018 for use inside the office, but it has now been mounted outside, giving the public access 24/7.

A spokesperson said: "AHAC would like to thank our landlord ABP for helping us achieve our long term goal of getting our defib finally mounted outside so it can be used 24/7 when the office is closed.

"AHAC originally purchased the defib back in 2018 by topping up donations from our previous landlord Bill Slattery and a few local businesses in the street.

"AHAC have continued to maintain it but it was always our vision to get it outside. ABP gave permission for the defib to be externally mounted along with covering additional costs.

"Thanks to St John's Ambulance for helping with the process and for committing to provide our staff with additional training.

"ABP are also arranging for additional training in the community soon."