Two rugby players who came to the aid of a man who had suffered a heart attack have received recognition from Cumbria’s chief fire officer.
Sarah Pratt and Lynsey Rumney helped the man who had become unwell in his car near the clubhouse of their rugby team, Carlisle Cougars, where they had been watching a game.
Sarah and Lynsey helped the man from his car and performed CPR until the ambulance arrived. They continued to help the paramedics while the man received further treatment.
The duo were invited to Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service’s annual awards and received a commendation from chief fire officer Rick Ogden.
Mr Ogden said: “What these ladies did on that day was absolutely remarkable. They managed to keep calm in an incredibly difficult situation and took decisive action in putting their life-saving skills into practice.
#“It’s particularly pertinent because Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service had delivered CPR training to Sarah, Lynsey and everyone at their rugby club earlier this season, so it goes to show how crucial it is to deliver and to learn these skills.”
Sarah and Lynsey said: “It’s amazing to receive the commendation; we never expected it.
“What happened to the gentleman highlights the importance of everyone learning how to deliver CPR, and we were pleased that we were able to help.”
Carlisle Cougars said: “In what was an absolutely horrendous situation for everyone, Lynsey and Sarah worked together, directed those around them, managed to keep calm and put their training into practice. Their actions on that evening were life saving.
“CPR training is a vital skill that we all hope to never have to put into practice, but it’s invaluable. So please, if you haven’t already, make it a priority to do your training or participate in a refresher course.
“Carlisle Women’s Rugby team and the rest of Carlisle Rugby Club wish a strong recovery to the gentleman, and send our love to the rest of his family.
“Lynsey and Sarah, you’re a credit to the club and we’re so proud of your efforts that night.”
Also receiving a commendation at the ceremony was Lewis Thomas, an information governance officer with the fire service, who had come to the aid of a teenager who had fallen unconscious in Carlisle.
Lewis administered first aid and CPR and kept the young man stable until the ambulance arrived. He has since learned that the teenager has made a full recovery.
Mr Ogden said: “Lewis’ selflessness, servitude and courage epitomise the values and spirit of Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service. There is no doubt that the professionalism demonstrated by Lewis was fundamental in helping save the life of the teenager.”
Lewis said: “It’s a real honour to receive the commendation, and a reminder of the importance of acquiring and maintaining first aid skills. No one leaves the house expecting to need or give first aid; it’s key that people feel able to provide it and are confident in administering it.
“I’m thankful that I was able to make a difference, and grateful that I’ve been able to develop and maintain the skills to be there when needed.”
