A NEW publicly-accessible defibrillator has been installed in Otley in memory of a respected local historian.

Elise Brumfitt, an author who kept her own extensive reference library at her home, died in 2013, aged 66, after a long battle with cancer.

Her widower, Rod, has donated the funds for a defibrillator, which has been set up in Westgate, outside Courtyard Planters, in her honour.

The donation was in support of town councillor Peter Jackson's (Lib Dem, Ashfield) ongoing campaign to get a network of the life-saving devices installed across the town.

Cllr Jackson said: "My wife and I became friends with Elise and Rod some years ago whilst working as volunteers for Otley Pub Club.

"Elise was always willing to delve into her records to help answer a query from anyone.

"I remember with fond memories the times we spent at their home, whether it was just a social visit, attending her barbecue evenings or for Christmas dinner.

"I remember being shown the many files Elise had, packed with information about the past – Otley’s schools, shops, pubs, churches, everything, which proved very useful to all interested in the history of Otley.

"I am overwhelmed by the generosity of Rod for his donation and have placed a brass plaque on the defibrillator box to commemorate Elise.

"I also thank Courtyard Planters for agreeing to, and paying for, the installation, and Scott Manson Electricians for installing the defibrillators in Otley."

Cllr Jackson is also hoping to have his campaign registered as a charity as it moves forward.

Mrs Brumfitt was a committee member of Otley Pub Club and the author of two books in the 1980s – Old Otley and Otley And Menston, A Glimpse Of The Past.

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