Gallacher Backing Defibrillator Access

Former Ryder Cup-winning captain Bernard Gallacher is launching a campaign to make more defibrillators accessible on the golf courses.

The 64-year-old spent a week in intensive care after going into cardiac arrest at a corporate event, where for a while it was touch and go as to whether the golfing legend would recover.

A spokesman for Gallacher said: "The availability of a defibrillator was central in giving Bernard a chance of survival.

"He will be championing a campaign to make defibrillators widely accessible at golf courses around the UK."

The campaign has the support of the PGA and European Tour. A spokesman for Gallacher’s management company added: "Bernard went into cardiac arrest on three occasions following irregular heart activity in the days preceding the incident.

"Thanks to the composed and quick thinking of staff and guests at the engagement, as well as quick access to a defibrillator, Bernard is now on his way to making a full recovery with no long-term effects expected.

"The support and well wishes received throughout Bernard's time in hospital and since returning home have been incredible, and Bernard would like to pass his sincere thanks to his sponsors and supporters for their kind words, thoughts and prayers."

Gallacher led Europe to victory over the USA in the Ryder Cup in 1995, having been the losing captain twice before that, and he now plans to resume his playing career.