A selfless council employee has won an award for his bravery after saving a life in Kidderminster last year.

Wyre Forest District Council worker, Darren Harker, was presented with the Royal Humane Society Resuscitation award by West Mercia Police Chief Superintendent Grant Wills and Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Jones.

His selflessness and bravery were recognised after Mr Harker helped save a life on October 13 2022 during an incident in Brinton Park.

Mr Harker quickly arrived on the scene to find a man having a cardiac arrest and started first aid whilst waiting for the emergency service by providing chest compressions to the man.

Thanks to Mr Harker and following treatment at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital, the man made a recovery and was able to leave.  

Superintendent Mel Paley said: “The awarding of these commendations recognises fantastic work. It also highlights there are many more across the force area and nationally who deliver exceptional levels of service and regularly go above and beyond to keep us all safe.” 

Kidderminster Shuttle: DC Claire Masters was recognised for her work on the investigation into HMP Hewell in Redditch DC Claire Masters was recognised for her work on the investigation into HMP Hewell in Redditch (Image: West Mercia Police)

The awards recognise officers, staff and a member of the public who have gone above and beyond their duty to protect communities across North Worcestershire.

The two other awards went to DC Claire Masters and officers including DC Emma Chivers and DC Paul Lofthouse.

DC Claire Masters was recognised for her work during Operation Amalfi, a three-year investigation into the supply of prohibited items into HMP Hewell in Redditch.

During the investigation, DC Masters showed exceptional organisational skills, diligence and commitment which resulted in 14 defendants being charged with the systematic conveyance of contraband.

Supt Mel Paley said: “I am immensely proud and honoured to lead the men and women who deliver policing services across North Worcester, and tonight is a key highlight of this year for both me and my command team.”

Kidderminster Shuttle: DC Emma Chivers and DC Paul Lofthouse helped secure a conviction for sexual assault DC Emma Chivers and DC Paul Lofthouse helped secure a conviction for sexual assault (Image: West Mercia Police)

DC Masters was also recognised alongside DC Chivers and DC Lofthouse for their work on a complex investigation into the repeated sexual assault of a young child.

The team showed exceptional compassion, personal resilience and professionalism which contributed to securing key evidence leading to a guilty plea and the suspect receiving an 18-year custodial sentence for the offences.