They have been rivals in business for more than 50 years, but now two Wells fish and chip shops are joining forces to help save lives.

Platten's has been feeding people in Wells since the early 1960s and, a few metres down the Quayside, is French's which has been in the town for more than 90 years.

The two businesses are together trying to raise £3,000 to pay for a defibrillator installed on Wells Quayside.

French's owner Marcus French said: 'I think we've always had a friendly rivalry between us. It keeps us both on our toes, which helps ensure Wells has two very good fish and chip shops.

'We thought it would be a good idea to come together to do something to benefit Wells.'

Platten's manager Luke Platten, 25, along with staff members Jamie-Lee Platten, 21, Stewart Mitchell, 30, and Adam Thompson, 35, will be doing a skydive at Old Buckenham Airfield on October 2 and, on September 29, part of the shop's takings will donated to the appeal.

Staff at French's are intending to grow their moustaches for Movember and the two fish and chip shops will also plan various other fund-raising activities in the coming months,

Each businesses will attempt to raise £1,500. It is hoped the money will be raised by Christmas and the defibrillator will be installed by next spring.

Platten's owner Phil Platten said: 'I have an ICD myself and have experienced shocks from that which have saved my life. This defibrillator will, no doubt, help to save other lives.'

Andy Long, emergency medical technician for the East of England Ambulance Service, said: 'The Quay is the heartbeat of Wells, particularly in the summer months, so having a defibrillator here will be hugely beneficial.'

To find out more about the fund-raising efforts and to make a donation, visit Platten's and French's on Wells Quayside.