In response to Alan’s death, Ben and a team of local supporters set out to raise funds for a public defibrillator. Through donations from customers, neighbours and local businesses, they secured enough to install the equipment on the pub’s exterior. But they didn’t stop there.

• Partnered with St John Scotland to provide free CPR and defibrillator training sessions, open to all.
• Sessions were attended by a wide range of residents, including children, parents, and older adults.
• Extended their impact by supporting other local defibrillator campaigns, including at the Earl of Marchmont pub.

Their campaign not only honoured Alan’s memory but also equipped the community with life-saving tools and knowledge.

The outpouring of support was immediate. Dozens gathered outside the pub to pay their respects to Alan. Since the campaign, the defibrillator has become a symbol of community unity. Residents praised the sessions as “informative” and “empowering.” The local MP, Ian Murray, even attended a training session himself, underscoring the scale and significance of the impact.

• Installed a fully accessible community defibrillator in the heart of the neighbourhood.
• Provided essential first aid training to dozens of local residents.
• Sparked a wider network of local pubs and organisations joining the push for more lifesaving resources.
• Reinforced the pub’s role as a trusted, dependable space for health and support.

The Polwarth Tavern turned personal tragedy into community transformation. With compassion, leadership, and a commitment to safety, they have honoured a friend, educated a neighbourhood, and helped build a network of support across south Edinburgh. Their work embodies the very best of what a community pub can achieve.