Quick-Thinking PC Saves Pensioner ; Officer Gave Man CPR on Street

By BRENDA HICKMAN Crime Reporter

A LIFESAVER police officer was praised today for helping to revive a dying man.

Quick-thinking PC Tony Stephenson came to the aid of 81-year-old George Maughan who had collapsed outside Sinners Bar, Newgate Street, Newcastle.

Tony was first at the scene and gave the stricken pensioner the kiss of life until paramedics arrived and took Mr Maughan to Newcastle General hospital.

Mr Maughan, of Gosforth, is awaiting surgery in the coronary care unit.

The beat bobby’s action, along with colleague PC Iain Brown who arrived at the scene, has been commended by the victim’s family and senior officers. PC Stephenson said today: “All police officers are trained in first aid and would have reacted in the same way.

“I was first on the scene and immediately began carrying out CPR with the assistance of an off-duty nurse.

“I carried on when the paramedics arrived and in the ambulance before they took him to hospital for treatment.

“Thankfully, paramedics and hospital staff have managed to save him.”

PC Stephenson visited Mr Maughan in hospital last week.

He said: “I’m delighted he’s pulled through. He’s in good hands and is getting the treatment he needs.”

The incident happened at 6.50pm on Saturday, March 1.

Mr Maughan’s daughter, Philippa Gallagher, also of Gosforth, said: “I am eternally grateful to the officers who attended the scene, particularly PC Stephenson, who helped support my father’s life until paramedics arrived.

“We also received fantastic help from police who came to tell me what had happened and took me straight to the hospital.

“The support we’ve received from local officers has been faultless from start to finish.”

Insp Ricky Thompson, added: “We’re very proud that PC Stephenson has been able to use his training to help save a life. He reacted quickly in difficult circumstances and thankfully Mr Maughan is now on the road to recovery.”

(c) 2008 Evening Chronicle – Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.