Alsager runner who survived cardiac arrest launches defibrillator fundraising campaign
By Deborah Bowyer 19th Apr 2026
An Alsager runner has launched a fundraising campaign for a defibrillator to be placed in an area where people run and cycle after his life was saved by passers-by following a cardiac arrest.
Rob Langford was walking back after the Alsager 5 race last year and was just 200 yards from his home when he collapsed and passers-by gave him CPR on the spot.
Thanks to the quick-thinking work of the passers-by, Rob's life was saved and now he wants to thank those who helped him and urge as many people as possible to learn how to do CPR and use the defibrillator when necessary.
Now Rob, a retired hydraulics engineer, has launched The Wilbraham Arms Defibrillator Fundraising Campaign here and is encouraging as many people as possible to help in one way of another.
He said: "I and The Wilbraham Arms are partnering with AEDdonate to raise funds for one external defibrillator for the outside of the pub. This life-saving device will be accessible to anyone in the event of a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
"Throughout my life I have always enjoyed and taken part in swimming, cycling and running events. Having recovered from prostate cancer in 2024, my aim was always to return back to the passion I had for these activities and to complete my local Alsager 5 mile run in February 2025 , which I did complete.
"However on my walk home I collapsed on the pavement following a heart attack and cardiac arrest. I was in the position that those who witnessed this were all trained in CPR and supported me until health professionals arrived.
"I was transported to the Royal Stoke hospital. Following the insertion of a stent and having had received excellent care and support from the staff I returned home.
"It took time to recover at home and as I felt stronger again my focus was to complete the Alsager 5 again one year later which I successfully completed in February of this year.
"My aim is to raise enough funds to be able to support a defibrillator at The Wilbraham Arms in Alsager, which is close to an area where the public can cycle and run.
"I would like to be able to support others who may benefit from this life saving equipment should it be needed. Once installed, the defibrillator will be registered with the local ambulance trust and available for the public to use 24/7.
"This doesn't replace emergency services. Instead, it provides immediate, potentially life-saving intervention while the ambulance is enroute. The quicker the shock is delivered, the greater the chance of survival."
Rob has been running for 40 years and has taken part in all kinds of events from triathlons and to an Iron Man triathlon and regularly takes part in Astbury Country Park's Park Run.
He runs about twice or three times a week.
A spokesperson for The Wilbraham Arms in Alsager Road North said: "Rob's initiative to raise money for a defib machine at the pub is tremendous and we'll fully support his efforts.
"We're pleased to be able to have the space and facility to host a defibrillator on site at The Wilbraham Arms and offer lifesaving equipment to our local community."
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