Three women who saved a man’s life in St Albans had prestigious awards hand-delivered to them this week.

PC Lee Gough was called to an incident at the Alban Arena in October of last year where 74-year-old John Tyler had gone into cardiac arrest. When he arrived, paramedics were helping him.

However, it transpired that three members of the public – Tracy Davis, Jacqueline Hylands and Susan Thornton – had already rushed to help critically ill John by performing CPR and using a defibrillator to save his life. John has since made a good recovery.

PC Gough nominated the three women for the Royal Humane Society Award which is only given to those who go above and beyond to help save someone’s life.

Under normal circumstances, the awards would have been presented at a ceremony held at police HQ. However PC Gough – joined by Inspector Dean Board – visited the women at home to present them with their award in person.

He said: “I remember the day well. Tracy, Jacqueline and Susan’s quick-thinking undoubtedly saved this man’s life and I’m so grateful they were there. Paramedics also applauded them and I was honoured to meet them again to give them their deserved recognition.”

John said: “Without them, I wouldn’t be here today. I really appreciate all they have done for me. I’m so glad they received this award.” He is meeting up with Tracy this week.

Intervention Inspector Dean Board added: “I am in awe of these women who stepped up and took responsibility – to be at a show one minute and then saving somebody’s life the next is just incredible. I am so happy that these ladies have received the recognition they deserve. Tracy and Susan have attended first aid courses at work and Jacqueline works in nursing, but to deal with an incident unfolding before them in the way they did is just amazing.