A LIFESAVING service has been saved from the brink of collapse by kind-hearted Daily Echo readers.

Whiteley Community Responders say they now have enough funding to keep going for another two to three months.

The service, which provides emergency medical treatment before the arrival of ambulance paramedics, still needs more backing.

Team responder and volunteer Dave Crowther warned earlier this week that they only had enough cash to attend a couple more call-outs before the operation would be forced to fold.

He criticised large local companies for not making donations when approached, even though responders had been called out to emergencies on their premises.

The two-strong team of Whiteley Community Responders need £1,500 a year to keep going and funds had fallen below the £100 mark.

But following the arrival of a cheque for £230 on Dave's doormat from Abbey National, who after hearing of Dave's appeal said they would consider any fresh application as they had benefited from the service.

The bank balance now stands at a healthy £320.

Dave, a community responder of four years, is also to meet another businessman today who read about his plea for funding.

Dave, 44, of Conrad Gardens, said: "The company seems keen to sponsor us and do what it can to help.

"Thanks to this extra funding we probably have enough to last us for the next two to three months if the call-outs are low.

"But we do need to have spare equipment available in case of a major incident.

"Even the smallest of incidents would cost £10 at the very least to attend.

"The help is great but we are still desperate for funds."

The extra funding means the community responders will have enough money to achieve requalification status this month - something they need to continue attending emergencies.

If you or your company would like to help, call Dave on 01489 603380.