Leisure centre staff have been thanked for their life-saving actions after a runner suffered a heart attack nearby.

Dr Hans Petri suffered a heart attack last month while running outside Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre with the St Albans Striders running club.

The centre’s assistant manager Jamie Vine and team leader Rob Watson, both members of the centre’s Everyone Active staff, rushed to Dr Petri’s aid and, following first aid procedure, performed full CPR.

Dr Petri publicly praised the quick reaction of the Everyone Active staff after making a full recovery.

He said: “I can’t thank these two men enough for their help. I’m only alive today because of their quick reactions.

“I’ve never had heart issues and I run regularly with my club – this can happen to anybody.

“As a doctor of medicine I understand how important it is for everyone to understand first aid, and if it wasn’t for the staff being properly trained I may not be here today.”

Lesley Garner, the Everyone Active general manager has highlighted two issues – the importance of understanding first aid and the benefits of running as part of a group.

He said: “Our staff receive ongoing monthly first aid training as part of their role at the centre and we are very proud of them and pleased that Dr Hands Petri has made a full recovery.”