Life-saving PC to be honoured at award ceremony

PC Donna Powell was called to an address in Battle on February 13 2011 after a mother raised concerns about the safety of her daughter, who was locked in a bathroom at her home.

PC Powell knocked on the door and shouted out, but after receiving no response, she forced the door.

The woman was submerged in the bath with her head out of the water and after showing no vital signs, PC Powell began giving her the kiss of life while the woman’s mother, a former nurse, administered chest compressions.

The actions saved the woman’s life.

PC Powell, who lives in St Leonards, was awarded a Resuscitation Certificate by the Royal Humane Society.

She will receive her award at the Force’s East Sussex Divisional Awards Ceremony, which will take place at the East Sussex National Golf Club and Spa in Uckfield on Wednesday.

At last year’s ceremony, Sussex Police presented PC Powell with an Outstanding Frontline Award.

Other officers from across the division will receive awards for going beyond the call of duty.

East Sussex Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Robin Smith said: “The divisional awards for me are the highlight of the policing year.

“They are a real opportunity to celebrate the amazing work of officers and staff in East Sussex Division and their commitment to offering the highest standard of service to the community.”