PUPILS at Robert Blake and Elmwood Schools in Bridgwater have a new defibrillator and additional special needs equipment for their sensory rooms, thanks to a sponsored cycle ride by staff who run their school’s facilities.

The cyclists, including three teachers from Robert Blake and Elmwood Schools, were joined by staff from construction, and facilities management company BAM and of Futures for Somerset, on their ride from Bristol to Bridgwater, raising £2,600.

Ed Martin, the business manager of Robert Blake Science College, said: “We were delighted to be part of the sponsored ride from Bristol to Bridgwater and the staff directly involved enjoyed the experience and challenge.

“We were pleased to be able to contribute to such a worthy cause, with the funds raised going to provide equipment which will help save lives in the future.”

Eamonn McKiernan, facilities manager for BAMFM who organised the ride, said: “We’re very proud to have helped the pupils raise the money for something that makes their lives a bit better.

“We were all desperately sad when Ian Snell, a teacher at Robert Blake, had a heart attack and passed away recently so it’s highly motivating for us all.”