Hampshire teen recognised for saving neighbour's life

Jack Palmer, a 15-year-old from Alton, was at home on a Saturday afternoon in December when a medical emergency unfolded next door involving his neighbour, Tony.

Hatty, Tony’s daughter, quickly called 999 and began CPR, while Tony’s wife, Elaine, went to find a defibrillator. Jack stepped in to help, locating the device and rushing it to the scene.

He assisted in setting up the defibrillator and delivered the first shock before taking over CPR from the exhausted Hatty.

Elaine then administered a second shock before Alton’s on-call firefighters arrived at the Holybourne home.

Thanks in part to Jack’s quick thinking and calm response, Tony was able to return home in time for Christmas and is expected to make a full recovery.

Jack Palmer (left) and Assistant Chief Fire Officer Ben Allen (Image: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service)

Jack was later invited to Alton fire station, where he and his mother were formally thanked and he was presented with a Chief’s Commendation award by Assistant Chief Fire Officer Ben Allen.

Tony, his family, and Jack’s headteacher were also present at the ceremony on Tuesday evening.

Josh Grant, watch manager at Alton Fire Station, said: "Jack’s actions undoubtedly helped save his neighbour’s life, and we want to ensure he gets the recognition he deserves.

"It is important that we highlight role models in our communities such as Jack, an incredible 15-year-old, who dropped everything to support someone who needed help."

Alton Fire Station is staffed by on-call firefighters who live and work in the local community.

They respond to emergencies by heading to the station and riding the fire engine when alerted.