A NUMBER of local police cars will be equipped with life-saving defibrillators in memory of a Largs grandfather who devoted his own life to helping others.

David MacDonald was a first responder for many years but before taking on that role he was a well respected community policeman in the town.

Following his recent passing, officers and first responders in Largs came together this week to reveal the programme which will see defibs fitted to police cars to help assist with emergencies.

On Monday, the Largs First Responders presented local police sergeant Mark Semple with two mobile machine which will be carried in the local patrol vehicles.

The group's Thom Williamson said: "Having these devices with the police will hopefully increase the chances that a person who has suffered a cardiac arrest can get treatment faster, which will improve their chances of recovery.

"Every minute is vital in the chain of survival."

The organisation have been able to support the initiative thanks to donations from local residents in memory of David.

Thom added: "It is especially satisfying to be able to make this donation. David was a hard working police officer in the town for a long time and also helped to establish the First Responder team. This is a fitting tribute to him."

The group have now supported the introduction of 16 public access defibrillators in the area.

A former police constable, David was stationed in Largs in 1969 and was a well-kent community face for many years.

David, who also served in a number of sporting, cultural and community groups, was also well known to many as a president of Largs Bowling Club and captain at Largs Golf Club, but it was his work as an emergency first responder and heart-start instructor that won him so many plaudits.

He successfully beat bladder cancer ten years ago but in 2019 was was diagnosed with lung cancer and again bravely battled before losing his fight last month.

He passed away aged 77 in his family home in Alexander Walk.

He served as a volunteer and trainer in the Largs First Responders from 2003 to 2018 after working as an instructor for the British Red Cross for many years.

Photo: Ryan Scott Photography