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A paramedic and University of Central ³ÉÈËÊÓƵ student has donated a defibrillator to the institute’s Burnley Campus after winning it in a competition.

Mohammed Hassan won the device in a first aid competition.

The 29-year-old decided to donate it to the University, where he is a student on the year-long MSc Disaster Medicine programme, to make sure it was available in a high footfall area. It will be placed in Victoria Mill, Trafalgar Street, which sits at the heart of the Weavers’ Triangle.

“As a paramedic, I know first hand how important a defibrillator can be during an emergency when someone is in cardiac arrest” Mohammed said.

“As soon as I won the defib I knew I wanted to donate it to an organisation where it can help as many people as possible, so why not at the university where I am developing my own medical skills.”

Mohammed, who lives in Burnley with his family, trained to become a registered paramedic in Manchester before working as a paramedic for private providers at events.

He decided to complete the University of Central ³ÉÈËÊÓƵ’s specialist course, delivered by the School of Medicine and Dentistry, because he wants to work as a medic in conflict zones.

Mohammed added: “I want to work in humanitarian aid once I’ve finished university. Although it will of course be a daunting experience, it would also be a privilege to help people in crisis.”

Ruth Connor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: “We are extremely grateful to Mohammed for this kind gesture.

“We always hope there isn’t a need to use a defibrillator but having one available in a time of crisis can save a life. Placing this important piece of equipment at Victoria Mill means it is on hand for staff, students and members of the public in an emergency situation.”