A new scheme to provide life-saving equipment for every Gloucester pub and club has been launched.

Public Hearts is attempting to raise £10,000 to buy a defibrillator unit for every licensed premises in the city.

The scheme was the brainchild of Gloucestershire police officer Matt Hammond, who has started a Justgiving Crowdfunding page to collect donations.

Each unit costs £800 and all premises supporting the campaign will raise money for their own machine, with any extra going towards those still collecting.

The aim of the scheme, which is supported by the police and the NHS, is to get 90 per cent of pubs, clubs and bars to host a defibrillator available for use by all.

"We chose pubs and clubs because they have suitably trained staff and are open for long hours in locations that are well known to all," said PC Hammond.

"It could make the difference between life and death in those few vital minutes before the emergency services arrive."

He said they wouldn't just be available for use by the pub but also for anyone nearby should an emergency arise.

PC Hammond is urging as many pubs and clubs in Gloucester join the campaign and hope the scheme will eventually expand to include the whole of Gloucestershire.

Anyone wanting to donate to the scheme should visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/j-hudson-1?utm_id=2&utm_term=R7dGE8Wbm