Littlehampton pensioner hailed for lifesaving prowess

David, from Littlehampton, proved he could certainly think under pressure while competing at the Royal Life Saving Society’s national competition, earning an array of medals for his efforts.

The 67-year-old, of Lundy Close, was one of more than 200 people competing at the event, in Sheffield.

The grandfather of three, who has lived in Littlehampton for four years but is an instructor at the Horsham Life Saving Club, said: “You really have to think on your feet.

“You never know what sort of incident is going to be presented to you when you get to the pool. But I’m very proud of the results.”

David scooped a gold in the men’s Masters over-60 swim and tow category, as well as a silver in the rope-throw rescue and a bronze in the life support incident.

At one point, the retired underwriter had to deal with six injured people and a mock child manikin at the bottom of the pool, all within 90 seconds. He also had to provide first aid to an unconscious casualty, while dealing with the injured person’s “drunken” friend as part of the tests in one of the other sections.

He narrowly missed out on an overall podium finish at the competition, placed fourth.

However, David said winning or losing wasn’t the main driving force behind him entering the competition.

“I promised my wife, way back in 1972, that I would stop competing because teaching the lifesaving was far more important to me.

“But I think the reason I took part at this event was to try inspire some of the younger students at the club. To see the older people going out there and proving just how much knowledge they have, I hope, is inspiring.”

For the full story, see today’s Littlehampton Gazette (Thursday, January 17).