TELEPHONE boxes are being turned into defibrillators as part of a new scheme to help save lives in the community.

Residents will be able to 'adopt' their local phone box for just £1 and convert them into something more useful.

Housing defibrillators is also becoming increasingly popular as it could be the simply way to saving someone's life.

The telecommunications company will continue to provide electricity to power the light for the adopted phone boxes, free of charge.

More than 780 payphones have been adopted by communities in the south east since 2008.

Katherine Bradley, operations manager at BT, said: "We are pleased to be giving even more local communities the chance to adopt a phone box.

"The opportunities are endless and we have already seen some amazing transformations.

"Applying is quick and easy and we are happy to speak to communities about adopting our traditional BT red payphone boxes."

Phone boxes could be converted into a mini-library, miniature art museum, cake shop or information centre.

There are currently 497 pay phone boxes available for adoption in the South East.

Recognised public bodies such as parish councils and registered charities or individuals who have a payphone on their own land can adopt a payphone.

Visit: www.bt.com/adopt to apply.