Life-saving work by police, emergency and airport staff recognised in Luton
Awards have been handed to a group of police officers, airport staff and emergency service workers in recognition of their bravery and commitment to saving lives during two incidents in Luton.
Airport staff Zahid Khan and Abdul Wali leapt into action after a passenger suffered a medical emergency in the airport on June 2, 2025.
They were quickly joined by Bedfordshire Police armed officers PC Jason Paul and PC Gareth Ward, with specialist medical equipment, and colleagues from the airport’s rescue and firefighting service, Elliott Foster and Ian Cross.
As a team, they worked together to provide continuous emergency care until clinicians from the ambulance service arrived to take over treatment.
The man was taken to hospital and has since recovered.
In a separate episode, PC Ian Parker, PC David Garwood and two other Bedfordshire armed officers helped a woman who had suffered a cardiac arrest in Cowridge Crescent in December 2024.
The officers immediately started life-saving treatment, giving her continuous CPR, keeping her airways clear, and using a defibrillator for around 12 minutes. Their efforts helped regain a pulse and meant the woman was transported to hospital in a stable condition.
Each of those involved was given a Royal Humane Society Award, thanking them for their outstanding contribution to saving lives.
Chief Constable Trevor Rodenhurst said: "I am particularly proud of the way colleagues worked alongside our partner agencies at London Luton Airport, demonstrating the strength of our relationships and the value of a co-ordinated response during emergency incidents.
"Everyone recognised through these awards should be immensely proud of their achievements. Their dedication, teamwork and commitment to preserving life are truly inspiring. These incidents highlight the vital role of partnership working and the difference that can be made when different organisations come together.” Neil Thompson, chief operating officer at Luton Airport commended the staff from the airport.
He said: "Faced with a serious medical emergency, they acted immediately to support a passenger in need, demonstrating the commitment our teams show every day to keeping people safe. This award is a fitting recognition of their actions and of the vital role our colleagues play in delivering assistance when it matters most.”