Dozens of people have taken part in the first Restart a Heart event in the north-east to learn how to administer CPR and use a defibrillator.
The day was organised by the Aden Country Park Allotments group after recently buying six of the life-saving machines with the help of the Mintlaw Co-op and local farmers.
The keen gardeners launched the event after being contacted by residents requesting advice on how to use the devices.
Seventy people took part in the session at the allotments on Saturday.
Chairwoman of the Aden allotments group Paula Cordiner said: “Everyone who came got really involved.
“It was surprising to see how many older people turned up because they wanted to know what to do if something happened to their friends or partner.
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“There was a gentleman aged 93 who was an ambulance driver mechanic in the war who came along as his pals are old and he wanted to brush up on his skills.
“It amazed me.
“The older people also got really into using the dummies as did the kids.
“We would like to say a massive thank you to the Mintlaw Guides who helped with refreshments and to all of the anonymous farmers who donated funds to get us to this point.”
Paramedics and a local fire crew also attended on the day, helping to educate the public about their role in emergencies.
Local residents were given certificates after completing their training.
Mrs Cordiner added: “There was a lot of people who missed out as they were heading to other events.
“We’re hoping to do another Restart a Heart day very soon to coincide with the installation and plugging in of a defibrillator at Aden coach house.
“We don’t yet know when that will be but if people wish to learn how to save a life or use the machines then they can contact us at Aden allotments to borrow the kit.
“It has a DVD which explains everything so people can make sure their friends and family also know what to do if there was an emergency.”
To request the kit contact the group via Facebook or on the website at www.adenplots.co.uk
