An MP has joined calls for people to be trained in life-saving CPR as part of a national campaign.

Bob Blackman has given his support to the British Heart Foundation, which is hoping to create "a Nation of Life Savers".

According to the foundation, more than 30,000 people in the UK suffer a cardiac arrest outside hospital, but only one in ten survive.

The BHF says the Nation of Lifesavers initiative could save around 5,000 additional lives a year in the UK, having looked at the experience of Norway where CPR training is mandatory in schools.

The MP for Harrow East said: “Cardiac arrest survival rates in the UK fall way behind survival rates in other countries where CPR training is part of the curriculum.

“By joining the Nation of Lifesavers, I want to see every child in the UK finish school equipped with the necessary skills to respond in a medical emergency.

“CPR is an important skill and just 30 minutes of training could save someone’s life.”

The campaign aims to have CPR skills as part of the national curriculum and a petition has already gained more than 5,000 signatures.

Those interested in signing up can do so by clicking here.