TWO public-spirited men and an off-duty police officer have been rewarded for their bravery after they stepped in to save the life of an 80-year-old man.

Charles Beaman of Limetree Avenue, Stockton Heath, collapsed on Wilderspool Causeway.

Keith Gallagher from Culcheth, Paul Devlin from Rainhill and PC Brian Leahiff of Warrington Police were all on their way to work when they saw Mr Beaman at the side of the road. They immediately rushed to his aid.

Keith said: "I never gave it any thought. I just stopped my car and ran to help him.

"I did a first aid course at work years ago and it all came flooding back. I just got on with it."

Paul had also done a resuscitation course. He said: "I was a bit worried that I wouldn't remember what to do. After calling for an ambulance on my car phone, I just did what I could to help."

The two men were joined by PC Leahiff and performed cardiac pulmonary resuscitation until the paramedics arrived.

Mr Beaman, who has a history of heart problems, survived. The trio received certificates from the Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society, a charity set up to reward life-savers for their prompt action and public spirited actions.

Constable Alan Pattinson from Warrington Police received a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal from Cheshire Constabulary for his services to the force.

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