Pool up for prize after saving man

A LOTHIANS swimming pool has been recognised at an awards ceremony after staff saved a man’s life.

Newbattle Pool in Newtongrange, Midlothian, was shortlisted for the final of the UK Heart Safe Awards 2012, which were held in Manchester.

Duty manager Douglas Harvey and lifeguard Barry Leslie used the pool’s defibrillator to help save the life of a pensioner who had suffered a heart attack at a bus stop outside in April.

The man was also aided by schoolboy Gareth Fleming, who used CPR techniques he had been taught as a volunteer lifeguard at the pool.

Douglas said: “I’m just so pleased we were able to save the gentleman’s life. I also want to pay tribute to young Gareth – were it not for his quick thinking and CPR skills, there could have been a very different outcome.

“It shows the importance of encouraging people to take first aid and CPR classes – you never know when you might need it.”