A COLCHESTER business has achieved its goal after a fundraising raffle event to provide a community defibrillator at its base.

Kent Blaxill is one of Colchester’s oldest businesses having been first established as far back as 1838.

The business has emphasised the need for more of these lifesaving pieces of equipment.

Julie Saunders, service manager at Kent Blaxill, said: “You never know when you will need a defibrillator as I know all too well.

“It’s really distressing to see a family member at the age of 48 die of a heart attack, but also my son at the age of 23 suffered a heart attack.”

 Julie’s determination to help others and potentially save someone’s life has driven her to raise enough money for the Kent Blaxill community defibrillator, for use by everyone in the community.

Kent Blaxill and its suppliers have contributed the prizes for the draw with the main prize being an iPad Air.

Colin, who won the top prize, said: “I’ve been shopping at Kent Blaxill Colchester for years, Kent Blaxill have always looked after me and the staff are very helpful, I’m always happy to contribute towards a great cause.”