TWO police officers and a teenage boy have been honoured by the St John Ambulance for their life-saving efforts.

PC Paul Hyde and PCSO Kelly Taylor were presented with certificates of commendation for their attempts to save the life of a mother-of-three.

The off-duty officers responded to a call for help at a house in Chillerton Way, Wingate, County Durham, in April last year.

A woman in her mid-thirties had collapsed in her bedroom, with her three young children in the house.

They administered first aid for more than 20 minutes, while dealing with the children, who were distressed and upset.

Despite their best efforts and those of the ambulance crew, the woman died without regaining consciousness. There were no suspicious circumstances. PC Hyde said: "I thought we were just doing what anyone else would do but I am very proud to get this award."

The two officers, who are both based in Peterlee were presented with certificates of commendation from St John Ambulance at Durham’s police headquarters at Aykley Heads, Durham.

The presentations were carried out by Durham’s Chief Constable, Jon Stoddart and a St John Ambulance representative John Short.

Mr Stoddart said: “Part of the key role of the police is to preserve life and officers are trained in first aid.

“Sadly, in this case by the time the ambulance arrived they had not been able to revive her and she died but St John Ambulance understand their community responsibility to recognise people for their efforts administer first aid and try to help people.

“They did their very, very best. I am very proud of them and especially that they were off duty but did not hesitate to put themselves back on duty to try to help this lady.”

Meanwhile, Jack Phillips received a Young First Aider certificate for saving the life of an elderly man at Consett bus station in August last year.

Jack, 14, of Delves Lane, Consett, saw the 96-year-old man fall to the ground and hit his head.

He gave immediate first aid, put the man in the seating position and continued to reassure him until the emergency services arrived.

Jack, who attends St Bede's RC school, in Lanchester, said: "I feel proud of getting the award because I did the right thing for the man and no-one else would do it apart from me.

"I felt sorry for him because he was quite old. When he fell on the floor I went straight over to help him.

Jack may also be put forward for the national Young First Aider awards to be held in London in May.

Inspector Michael McGowan said: "Without realising it, Jack effectively treated this man for shock when he calmed him down and made him feel safe.

"His quick thinking and caring attitude ensured the man was given the best possible immediate first aid and the best chance of surviving the fall."