Police officer awarded for helping unconscious driver on M27

PC Chris Powling, based at Havant Roads Policing Unit, was honoured at the Joint Operations Unit commendations ceremony.

He was awarded after responding to a car that hit the central reservation of the M27, near junction 9 at Park Gate.

When he got there he found the driver unconscious so started first aid, including giving CPR, despite the dangers of being in the middle of the motorway during rush hour.

The man did not survive but PC Powling’s calm approach to first aid had given him the best possible chance of survival.

The commendation said that throughout the incident PC Powling acted quickly and decisively, not only to try and save a life but also ensuring a dangerous scene was secured and that disruption to the public was kept to a minimum.

Nineteen officers, staff and members of the public were recognised at the awards.

Chief Superintendent Lucy Hutson said: ‘The recipients are the ones whose actions have stood out for special recognition and I feel a great sense of admiration and gratitude towards those involved.’