A NEW defibrillator dedicated to the memory of a paramedic who was killed on duty in Herefordshire is set to be unveiled.

During the Covid pandemic, in April 2021, ambulance technician Jeremy (Jack) Daw came out of retirement to assist with the huge demands being made on emergency services.

But while on duty and travelling along the A49 towards Hereford, his ambulance was involved in a crash which saw a rock come through the windscreen and killed him.

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Now, a life-saving defibrillator in Bargates, Leominster, has been dedicated to him.

An 80-year-old traditional red phone box, taken out of service some eight years ago, has been restored by local charity “Leominster in Bloom”, in association with the Rotary Club of Leominster, and it now houses the kit.

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With generous financial help from the Leominster community, over some 18 months, volunteers restored the kiosk from a poor state of repair.

It is known locally by the name “Bertie Bargates”, now fully operational, registered with the emergency services, and maintained by volunteers who check its status every week.

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On Friday, November 4 at 2pm, the kiosk will be opened by Dawn Daw, the paramedic's widow.

Lady Susanna McFarlane, a Deputy Lieutenant of Herefordshire, the Mayor of Leominster, representatives from West Midlands Ambulance Service, Leominster in Bloom and Rotary Club members, sponsors, and supporters from the local community will all be in attendance.