On Saturday 21st September, Bolton Wanderers and Bolton Wanderers in the Community welcomed supporters and members of the family of Iain Purslow to the Wellbeing Hub, supported by Vital Energi, to unveil the new lifesaving defibrillator.
The unveiling, attended by Iain Purslow’s family, along with supporters, local charities, and health organisations, took place ahead of kick-off for Wanderers’ game against Reading - the closest fixture to World Heart Day on Sunday 29th September.
The defibrillator, located within the Wellbeing Hub, stands as an honour to Iain and a testament to the incredible fundraising efforts and support from the community following his passing.
Iain’s family, alongside fans and supporters, have worked tirelessly to ensure that anyone passing through our stadium have access to lifesaving facilities. The installation of the defibrillator further strengthens both Bolton Wanderers’ and Bolton Wanderers in the Community’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of our community.
Phil Mason, Bolton Wanderers in the Community CEO and Wanderers COO, along with club Chairman Sharon Brittan joined the family, staff and supporters in the unveiling of the defibrillator before the match.
During the unveiling, Phil Mason reflected, “Following the tragic death of Iain Purslow earlier this year, we are grateful to his family who have come together to raise awareness of the importance of heart health.
"The ongoing support of residents, supporters and Iain’s family has been instrumental in funding the installation of this defibrillator in our Wellbeing Hub, ensuring lifesaving support to fans, participants and residents of Bolton. It was an honour to welcome the family and pay tribute to Iain, who will be forever a Wanderer.”
Alongside the unveiling, the Wellbeing Hub also hosted local charities and organisations to provide vital information in recognition of World Heart Day, a global initiative to raise awareness of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), the leading cause of death worldwide.
CVD is responsible for over 20.5million deaths every year in low and middle income countries. Both Bolton Wanderers and Bolton Wanderers in the Community are proud to join the effort and support our local community and fanbase by raising awareness on the importance of heart health.
Supporters on Saturday had the opportunity to connect with local charities and health organisations, offering invaluable information and services related to heart health. We encourage anyone seeking more information to explore the following resources:
- Bolton Cardiac Support Group (BCSG) – Providing vital support for those living with cardiac conditions. For more information, please visit boltoncardiacsupportgroup.com/
- ABL – Offering weight management and smoking cessation services. For more information, please visit ablhealth.co.uk/
- GP Federation – Connecting the local community with essential healthcare services. For more information, please visit boltongpfed.co.uk/
- NHS Foundation Trust – Offering AAA Screening (Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening). For more information on AAA Screening, please visit nhs.uk/conditions/abdominal-aortic-aneurysm-screening/ or Men over 65 can contact the AAA Screening programme at 0161 291 5716
- Lagan’s Foundation – Specialising in care for children with complex heart defects and feeding issues. For more information, please visit lagans.org.uk
Bolton Wanderers in the Community remains dedicated utilising the power of Bolton Wanderers FC to inspire, support and deliver positive change across Bolton.
As a club and a charity, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Purslow family, the club’s supporters, and all the organisations that joined us on Saturday. Your presence and dedication to raising awareness of heart health has made a positive step toward us continuing to support our town.