Sergeant Paul Potter was presented with a Royal Human Society Award.
A Croydon Police Sergeant was presented with a Royal Human Society Award this week after he saved a man’s life 27 miles out to sea.
Sergeant Paul Potter, from the New Addington and Fieldway Safer Neighbourhoods Teams was recognised at a ceremony for saving the life of a man whilst on a fishing trip off the coast of Devon in June last year.
Sergeant Potter noticed one of his fellow passengers was unwell, and realised he was suffering from more than sea-sicknesses. He alerted the Captain, who turned the boat around and headed for shore.
The man’s condition was deteriorating but as the boat was still 27 miles off-shore, it would have taken more than two hours to reach land. As his condition got worse, Sgt Potter called for the Captain to contact the Coast Guard.
As his condition worsened, the officer believed the man was suffering from a stroke, and when he became unconscious he administered oxygen to him and began chest compressions, before the Coast Guard appeared and the man taken to Plymouth Hospital.
Borough commander Chief Superintendent David Musker, who presented Sgt Potter with his award, said that the actions undoubtedly saved the man’s life.
“We have some outstanding officers here in Croydon and whilst Paul’s actions were truly remarkable, they did not surprise me,” he said.
“Keeping people safe is what we are about – whether we’re on duty dealing with violent criminals or indeed away on a fishing trip saving a man’s life.
“Paul’s actions embodied everything that is good about police officers here in Croydon, London and right across the UK. He showed remarkable resilience, authority and above all, determination to keep this man alive. I am extremely proud to have been able to present him with this award.”
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