A HEROIC little boy who saved his cousin’s life has been recognised with a police award.
Jake Emerson has been crowned Weardale’s latest Young Hero after he dislodged a sweet that his cousin Lewis had been choking on.
The youngsters were playing at their grandmother’s home in Stanhope when Lewis decided to tuck into a bag of Bon Bons.
Panic ensued when Lewis began to choke but Jake leapt into action and produced five back blows.
When this failed, Jake gave his cousin five abdominal thrusts which eventually removed the sweet from the youngster’s throat.
The eight-year-old was taught the lifesaving practice by his dad, Shaun, who previously survived a choking incident as a child.

Mr Emmerson said: “When I was five my grandad choked in his sleep, when I was ten I choked on a pickle, I thought I was going to die.
“I was saved, but since then I have had the fear in me.
"I made sure my three boys knew the basics of what to do in those situations.
“I am well chuffed with Jake, but he doesn’t like to make a fuss of it.
“Kids will be kids and will always jump into action to save their mates.
“It’s something that will go down in memory for him but it’s a good memory.
“I believe the manoeuvres should be taught in schools as choking is more common than people think.”


Jake, a pupil at Stanhope Barrington CofE Primary school, was presented with his award during a special school assembly on Friday morning by PCSO Kristy Smith and Community Safety Responder Jamie Clarkson, from Stanhope neighbourhood team.
They said: “Jake should be very proud of his achievement; he literally saved his cousin’s life and went above and beyond for a boy of his age – he is amazing and fully deserving of this award.”
CSR Clarkson was so inspired by Jake and Lewis’ story that as part of his work with schools, has begun delivering first aid sessions to primary school children across the Dales.

Deb Cross, Head of Stanhope Barrington Primary School said: "It is incredible that such a young child knew exactly what to do and this is thanks to his parents who have taught all of their children how to save someone from choking.
Everyone at the school is extremely proud of Jake and as a result of his actions our First Aid training will now be delivered to everyone at our school."