On Wednesday 18th June, The Bell Hotel proudly hosted the official unveiling of a public access defibrillator, generously donated to the town by Saxmundham Judo Club, with vital funding support from East Suffolk District Council’s Community Enabling Fund.
Installed in December 2024 on the rear terrace of The Bell Hotel, the defibrillator has already been registered and maintained, but inclement weather and scheduling challenges delayed the official ceremony until this summer.
Half of the funding was raised by Saxmundham Judo Club through community-driven initiatives including raffles, sponsored walks, and the Suffolk Judo Festival, a youth competition showcasing the town’s sporting spirit. The remaining 50% was secured by District Councillor John Fisher, through the Community Enabling Fund.
Responsibility for ongoing checks and maintenance has been taken on by The Bell Hotel team, ensuring the defibrillator is always ready should it ever be needed.
Assistant Manager of The Bell Hotel, Matthew Croxford, commented:
“This project reflects what Saxmundham does best, coming together to support one another. We’re proud to house and maintain such an important resource, and we’re incredibly grateful to Saxmundham Judo Club and our local councillors for making this happen.”
The unveiling was attended by representatives from The Bell Hotel, Town Council Leader John Findlay, District Councillor John Fisher, and members of the Saxmundham Judo Club, including a lively mix of all age groups. The event also saw the presentation of a British Judo Association Community Award to local coach Keith Cartwright-Jones, and a visit from elite international judoka, Ben Caldwell, much to the delight of the club’s youngest members.
