Brimington first-aider saves his little boy’s life

A dad who saved the life of his baby is urging people to learn first aid skills.

Tim Evans rushed to the aid of 18-month-old Finley when he started choking on a piece of food earlier this year.

He pulled Finley out of his high chair, delivered blows to his back and the food shot out.

Tim, a volunteer with St John Ambulance, said: “We were all at home and I was in the living room with Finley and our younger daughter Scarlett. I realised straight away that Finley was choking. The colour of his face had changed and he was clearly distressed.

“After a couple of back blows the food shot out. It was such a relief.”

Finley was sick after his ordeal but after a good check over and lots of cuddles he soon recovered.

Tim, 41, who lives in Brimington said: “As a parent there is nothing scarier than seeing your child in a life-threatening situation and feeling powerless to help.

“I was so pleased that the first aid training I had as a St John Ambulance volunteer meant that I knew what to do.”

He served as a cadet with St John Ambulance from the ages of 8 to 15, rejoined as an adult and now provides first aid at public events including Chesterfield FC Proact’s stadium and rugby fixtures.

He is urging people to learn vital life-saving skills as well as encouraging them to join the charity as first aider volunteers. “First aid is a vital skill for everyone to have but as a parent it is so important. It saved Finley’s life,” said Tim.

People can attend a three-hour Essential first aid all ages course at the charity’s training centre in Derby Road, Chesterfield, with a discount of £5 off for these dates: Monday, September 1 , 6pm-9pm; Monday, September 8, 1-4pm; Tuesday, September 30, 1-4pm.

To find out further information or to book a place call 0303 003 0103 or send an email to [email protected] quoting code EMR01.