AN 11-year-old who saved his younger brother’s life when he choked on chewing gum has received an award.

Christian Spencer, from Coundon Grange, County Durham, has become one of only ten recipients of Durham County Council’s Junior Citizen Medals.

It was presented by chairman Mac Williams in recognition of his heroics in July last year, when he saved his brother, Andrew, eight.

The gum became lodged in his throat, leaving him unable to breathe, cough or shout for help.

When Christian noticed Andrew lying on the ground in a park near their family’s home, he pressed his chest and slapped his back between the shoulders, dislodging the gum.

He remembered his training after he was taught first aid on a school trip to a hospital in 2009.

Councillor Williams presented the accolade to Christian at St John’s RC School, in Bishop Auckland, yesterday, where he studies, in front of his father, Derick, and brother.

Christian said: “I feel very proud of myself for getting this award. It is a great honour.”

Mr Spencer said: “I am really proud and very happy for him. His mum, Lisa, is over the moon, too.”