A man from Cornwall has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for the refurbishment of the village phone box so a defibrillator can be installed. 

Guy Watson has launched the campaign for the phone box in Lowertown, Helston to be refurbished so the lifesaving equipment can be easily accessed by members of the community.

The refurbishment of the phone box had been discussed at a meeting a few months ago.

It was agreed that it would be hugely beneficial and comforting for residents if the refurbishment could incorporate a defibrillator.

Guy said: “The phone box in Lowertown is in a sorry state.

“As our phone box is sited in the heart of our village it deserves to be a beacon of community spirit and joy.

“As a small hamlet, Lowertown is lucky to have a really thriving Community Group that meets regularly to help create events that bring the community together and find ways of supporting everyone in our local area.”

Falmouth Packet: The phone box is in desperate need of refurbishmentThe phone box is in desperate need of refurbishment (Image: Guy Watson)

Guy said he is “excited” about this project and will be giving a talk about phone boxes and how they’ve become such an iconic structure on our streets. The ‘Bring, Bring’ talk will raise money for the defibrillator and will start at 7pm at Trannack School on Tuesday, November 29. The talk is expected to last about an hour.

Guy has also arranged a community vote in Lowertown where everyone can vote for the colour of the phone box and the notice board.

“Although red is an option, we also have Racing Green, Oxford Blue, Country Cream, and Silvery Grey,” Guy added.

Guy, who is in his thirties, has lived locally for eight years after working away in London, Germany, and other places. He moved to Lowertown two years ago with his partner and their daughter.

Falmouth Packet: The public will have a say in what colour the phone box should be once it has been refurbished The public will have a say in what colour the phone box should be once it has been refurbished (Image: Guy Watson)

“We love it here and have enjoyed jumping into community activities.

“I work as a theatre director and own my company Cousin Jack which produces The Mousehole Cat every year in Mousehole – so organising events and getting people together somewhat runs through my veins!” said Guy.

To book tickets for Guy’s talk at Trannack School on November 29, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bring-bring-tickets-462010926117

For more information or to donate to the fundraising, visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/lowertown