QUICK-thinking staff at the Citadel Leisure Centre saved pensioner James Hamilton’s life after he had a heart attack during a gym session. 

They sprung into action, making use of their training and one of the defibrillators bought by the council to save the 65-year-old’s life. 
James recently met up with Scott Beattie, one of the Citadel team, to say thanks.

The trained staff performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and then went on to use a defibrillator to restart James’ heart before the paramedics arrived.

This week, James met up with Scott Beattie – one of the lifesaving team – to thank him and his colleagues for their quick actions. 

James also praised the Council for investing around £15,000 in 17 defibrillators at activity centres, golf courses and swimming pools across South Ayrshire and training over 30 staff to use them.

He said: “I am feeling fine, taking it day by day.  I would like to thank the team at the Citadel for all their help and am so glad that they have defibrillators available.”

Scott Beattie said: “In situations like this, the training kicks in and you just do what needs to be done. Just knowing the defibrillator is available is reassuring to staff and for anyone using our facilities.”

Councillor Bill Grant, Economic Development, Tourism and Leisure Portfolio Holder at South Ayrshire Council said: “I am glad James is on the mend. Every second is precious when it comes to dealing with a cardiac arrest and staff displayed their professionalism and first class training in dealing with the incident. The defibrillators have certainly proved their worth.”

James is making an excellent recovery and will have an opportunity in the future to join the cardiac rehabilitation classes run by the Council. 
He is also grateful for the efforts of ambulance staff and the NHS.

Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of premature death but, with immediate treatment, many lives can be saved.