NEW money has been pledged to ensure more life-saving defibrillators are spread throughout West Dunbartonshire.

At the recent meeting of the full council, a motion was approved for £50,000 to be set aside from free reserves to ensure there is a “good geographical spread” of automatic external defibrillators (AED) through the local authority.

The motion got unanimous backing as both Labour and the SNP have promoted the devices after community campaigns delivering them to schools and other public buildings.

Councillor Marie McNair said: “We all know people affected by this and the impact of access to these machines.

“It’s really important to take ownership of this issue - we know it saves lives.”

Cllr Gail Casey added: “I really welcome the progress that has been made. This is money well spent.”

The funding overturns the recommendation of council officers to put “on hold further funding” and will consult with councillors McNair and Danny Lennie on ensuring a good provision of AEDs.