A POLICE officer from Thornbury who saved a man’s life has been honoured at the Avon and Somerset Constabulary’s Force Awards.

PC Julie Rudyard was commended for her quick thinking and prompt actions last summer after a man collapsed and was apparently unable to breathe. PC Rudyard immediately called an ambulance and conducted CPR until paramedics arrived.

The man later required triple by-bass surgery and has gone on to recover well, and paramedics were very quick to point out that PC Rudyard’s sustained actions were in no doubt, the reason the man survived.

She was given the Awards of the Royal Humane Society, which is made to those who, at personal risk, save or endeavour to save life.

Of the winners, Chief Constable Andy Marsh said: “Time and time again, I’m inspired by the commitment, courage and resilience shown by my fellow officers.

“The changing face of policing is apparent as we read through the citations for the force awards. We still catch criminals but around 80 per cent of what we do involves supporting vulnerable victims, problem solving and working through crisis situations.

"Many of the incredible deeds we celebrate today are driven by three motivations; hope to make things better, belief in fairness and equality and human kindness - which is at the heart of policing.”