A RENOWNED comic has revealed that it was trained first aiders in the audience who saved his life when he had a heart attack on stage.

Actor Ted Robbins hosted at a recruitment event at Jubilee Hall for lifesaving charity Knutsford Community First Responder Trust (KCFRT).

The TV presenter gave a gave a compelling and moving account of the night he suffered a cardiac arrest during the Phoenix Nights Live tour at the Manchester Arena in 2015.

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The 68-year-old actor spoke with gratitude about the immediate aid provided by trained members of the audience which ultimately saved his life.

Having made a full recovery, Ted is now keen to help raise awareness of cardiovascular disease and support local charities who play such a vital role in saving lives.

Knutsford Guardian: From left, Carol Robertson NWAS paramedic and KCFRT instructor, Adrian Rees, Ted Robbins, Sam Sellars NWAS CFR training officer and Duncan Robertson senior NWAS paramedic and KCFRT instructorFrom left, Carol Robertson NWAS paramedic and KCFRT instructor, Adrian Rees, Ted Robbins, Sam Sellars NWAS CFR training officer and Duncan Robertson senior NWAS paramedic and KCFRT instructor (Image: KCFRT)

KCFRT volunteers respond to 999 calls and works alongside North West Ambulance Service.

Their trained community first responders attend an average of 300 callouts every year.

People were able to learn lifesaving techniques on the night.

Following Ted’s speech, the audience was shown how to recognise a cardiac arrest in an unconscious patient.

Duncan Robertson demonstrated how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) until paramedics arrive.

People were also how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED).

Adrian Rees, KCFRT chairman, explained the critical need for new recruits to rebuild the team following the pandemic.

A team of 12 fully trained responders is required to provide emergency cover across any given week.

However, as a result of Covid, there are now only two active volunteers.

Ted’s talk inspired several members of the audience to sign up.

Adrian said: “We were thrilled to see so many members of the community expressing an interest in becoming a Community First Responder.

“Applications are currently being processed by North West Ambulance Service and successful applicants will then undergo comprehensive training before joining our team.

“This will provide a much-needed boost to the charity, helping us to continue our vital mission to save lives in Knutsford.”

There are several places still available for those wishing to become a Community First Responder.

For a chat about becoming a volunteer, contact Adrian Rees on adyrees@yahoo.co.uk, call 07501 128571 or visit kcfrt.org.uk