Pembrokeshire-based charity Forever 11 was established in memory of 11-year-old Zac Thompson who tragically lost his life at West Angle Beach.

A donation by Valero Refinery Pembroke is helping the water safety charity with their aim of having more lifesaving equipment at beaches around the county.

The charity believes safety rings and defibrillators should be placed at all local beaches, as well as providing sea swim lessons and safety awareness sessions for both children and adults in the area.

Valero’s donation ensures a Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) is in place at the beach where Zac died. Situated on the beach’s Wavecrest Café, it is accessible 24 hours a day and provides instructions on how to use it should it be needed.

Chair of Forever 11’s trustees Sam John said:

“Defibrillators are invaluable in public places such as West Angle Beach and we are so grateful to Valero for their support in helping us place one here. They are simple to use, provide a quick response for those in need and are proven to increase survival rates from people who have suffered a cardiac arrest.”

Public Affairs manager at the Refinery, Stephen Thornton added:

“Safety is at the forefront of our working culture at Valero and while we hope this Defibrillator is never used, we are pleased to play our part in helping with Forever 11’s aims of promoting water safety awareness and improving access to life saving equipment.