An English cardiologist who saved the life of footballer Fabrice Muamba was at the Junior Lyceum in Ħamrun this morning for the launch of the Bicycle Marathon 2014.

Andrew Deaner went from spectator to lifesaver two years ago when Muamba suffered a cardiac arrest on the pitch at White Hart Lane during a televised game.

Muamba was given 15 defibrillation shocks in all – two on the pitch, one in the tunnel and 12 in the ambulance.

This morning, Mr Deaner joined several Lyceum students on a bike ride from Mater Dei to the school for the launch of the marathon, which aims to raise enough funds to have an automated external defibrillator installed in every school, as well as providing lifesaving training to every student. 

Mr Deaner told assembled guests that between 400 and 600 people aged 15 to 35 die from heart attacks in the UK every year.

“Cardiac arrests do not normally occur in front of a cardiologist. We need to teach children in schools how to respond because the chances of survival greatly improve when the victim receives immediate attention,” he said. 

MPs Carmelo Abela and Claudio Grech were also present for the launch.

This year’s marathon will take place from Friday till Sunday.

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