Campaign launched to train hundreds of 'Mersey Heartbeats' this month

NWAS has teamed up with BBC Radio Merseyside and Merseytravel to help people in the region take part in free CPR sessions throughout February.

To attend, all you would need to do is book a place on an one hour session taking place three times a day across Merseyside.

In the free session people will be taught what to do in the event of a cardiac arrest including how to do CPR and use a defibrillator.

Community resuscitation manager for NWAS Robert Hussey said: "Every single second counts in the event of a cardiac arrest as chances of survival are reduced by 10 per cent with each passing minute which is why it’s so important that members of the public are able to step in and begin life-saving CPR even before we arrive on scene.

“NWAS is passionate about making people aware of these simple skills that save lives and we’re really pleased to be linking up with BBC Radio Merseyside and our other partners on this campaign to give free CPR training to hundreds of people across Merseyside.

“The aim of the training sessions is for more people to feel confident enough to step in and help when the worst does happen which will ultimately save lives.”

Each of the sessions are led by healthcare professionals.

Pauline McAdam, assistant editor for BBC Radio Merseyside said: “BBC Radio Merseyside is really pleased to be able to work with our friends at North West Ambulance Service to help train people and to raise awareness of this issue.

“It’s so easy to think that you’ll never be the person who needs to know how to help but it could so easily happen.

"This training shows that some really basic knowledge can save another life. In minutes!

"So we want to learn, and help people overcome their fear that they may not be able to help.

"Instead we want to get the message out there that anyone can save a life!”

For more information and to book a place visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/bbc-radio-merseyside-18443713535