Cllr Mel Jacob (Cabinet Member for Communities, Engagement and Corporate services) has praised the quick actions of Melksham Community Campus staff, who saved a man’s life when he collapsed at the centre in September.

The gentleman was in the centre’s sports hall playing pickleball when he collapsed, with other players quick to alert the staff to the emergency.

Duty Manager Abi Dempsey was first on the scene, supported by colleagues Corrina and Tom. They quickly established that the man was not breathing, and so they administered CPR and used a defibrillator to resuscitate the man. Their coordinated efforts, alongside support from other team members and emergency services, ensured the patient received immediate and life-saving care before being transferred to Bath Royal United Hospital by ambulance.

All activities in the sports hall and swimming pool were cancelled for the remainder of the evening, while gym users were safely escorted from the building. Staff remained on-site to support customers and ensure the centre was secure and ready to reopen the following day.

Leisure staff receive continuous, regular training to enable them to be up to date with skills and knowledge, and confident in providing lifesaving actions if called upon, as well as supporting people across the county to enjoy active lifestyles.

Cllr Mel Jacob, Cabinet Member for Communities, Engagement and Corporate services, said: “I am incredibly proud of Abi, Corrina and Tom and the whole team at Melksham Community Campus for their swift and professional response. Their calm actions in a highly stressful situation made a vital difference and helped to save a life.

“It’s reassuring to know the gentleman is now recovering well and we wish him all the best for a fast and full recovery. This incident highlights just how crucial it is for our leisure staff to be trained in first aid and for defibrillators to be available in public buildings. They can help to save lives in critical situations.”

Lucy Townsend, Chief Executive for Wiltshire Council, said: “I would like to thank our team, the emergency services, and everyone involved for their professionalism and compassion during this incident.

“I’m glad to hear that the gentleman is recovering well and we very much hope to welcome him back into Melksham Campus as soon as he is able to return.”

More information about Wiltshire Council leisure centres and services can be found at www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure.