A Police Community Support Officer has been praised for his actions after he saved the life of a baby boy.

Adam Cleaver, who works for Winton Safer Neighbourhood Team, was on patrol in Winton when Donna Saghir ran out screaming for help.

Her 17-month-old son Samuel had stopped breathing after choking on a piece of pasta. She and neighbour Patsy Cox tried in vain to dislodge the food but were unsuccessful and the youngster's heart briefly stopped.

Donna said: “I just panicked. I saw some PCSOs walking up the road and I ran out and asked for help.”

PCSO Cleaver sprung to action and began using the life-saving skills he'd been taught during his training with Dorset Police to revive Samuel.

He said: “At the time I didn't really think about what I was doing, I just went into autopilot. It was only afterwards when I left the house that the gravity of the situation hit me.

“I have got two boys and it is nice to know that I am able to help save a child's life.”

Deputy Neighbourhood Inspector Chris Amey said: “We are so pleased Adam was in the right place at the right time and able to use the lifesaving skills he was taught in training to help save Samuel's life.

“We are extremely proud of his efforts and will be putting him forward for an award.”