Hero cop cycles nearly 360 miles to fund life-saving defibs in Maidstone
Epic Fundraising Ride
PC Nick Lingham and 20 mates smashed a gruelling 360-mile bike ride in just 12 hours. That’s almost double the length of the River Thames – all to raise over £3,000 for vital defibrillators. The team’s mission? To make life-saving equipment easily available along the River Medway towpath.
Nick’s drive came from the loss of his close friend and colleague, PC Adrian Debnam, who shared his passion for public safety. The pair often talked about the need for more accessible defibs during their rides.
Three Defibs Now Save Lives
Originally, PC Lingham aimed to buy two defibrillators for spots between East Farleigh and Aylesford. But the overwhelming community support blew past expectations, funding a third.
- Allington Locks
- Mill Meadow
- Fairmeadow
Each unit is ready 24/7 with new batteries and three sets of pads, backed by a solid maintenance plan.
Local Backing Secures Future
Maidstone County Council will cover ongoing running costs, while local businesses have stepped up to cover the annual electricity bills for each defibrillator.
A Moving Tribute
“Adrian and I often cycled along the River Medway towpath, talking about how 24/7 defibrillators could save lives in medical emergencies.
“Sadly, Adrian passed away before we could bring this vision to life together, so I decided to carry it out in his memory with the support of our community.”
“I want to thank everyone for their generosity and for making this possible.”
This powerful legacy honours PC Adrian Debnam and boosts public safety across Maidstone. Thanks to one officer’s passion and a community’s support, help is now just seconds away in a medical crisis.
