A pensioner has thanked the ambulance volunteer who saved his life.

Jeff Nicholas, 69, was at Ely Library one day in July when he suffered a heart attack.

Claire Dunham, a community first responder based in Ely, got there in minutes and, with the help of Paul Doe, an emergency care assistant for the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST), who was off-duty at the time, managed to resuscitate him.

Thanks to Claire, Jeff, who lives with his wife, Eileen, in Upton Place, Littleport, is now recovering at home.

Jeff invited Claire and her trainee community first responder, Lydia Jugg, who attended with her, to his home for tea.

Surrounded by his family, he said: “Claire did really well in this particular incident. She deserves commendation.

“This proves they are worth their weight in gold. Community first responders provide a fantastic service.”

Eileen added: “They saved his life – the whole family wanted to thank them for their excellent care.”

 

To become a First responder please call Claire Dunham on 07791040141.