A SPECIAL Constable who helped saved a man's life in Dorchester has been honoured with an award.

Special Constable Ben Turner leapt into action last December when a 75-year-old man fell from his bicycle and suffered a cardiac arrest.

Thanks to his and other colleagues' efforts in resuscitating him, the man survived and was able to spend Christmas with his family.

Mr Turner was among the members of Dorset Police staff praised at an award ceremony celebrating long service, bravery and good conduct.

He received a Royal Humane Society Award from the High Sherriff of Dorset Sir Philip Williams.

The Echo reported last year how Mr Turner and a colleague had gone to the man's aid after he collapsed on the night of Dorchester Christmas Cracker.

The pair worked on the man, giving him CPR and rescue breaths, for around 10 minutes before more officers and paramedics arrived.

A police spokesman said: "The cyclist was revived and taken to hospital to receive further treatment. Both officers visited the man in hospital where they were thanked by him and his daughter. Without their prompt and decisive actions, he may not have survived."

Other recipients at the awards night included Acting Sergeant Geraint Butler of Bridport police station who received the Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. It was in recognition of his 20 years of committed police service, during which he demonstrated "exemplary conduct on many occasions".

The force said that only recently Acting Sgt Butler and a colleague were assaulted during an arrest. He remained on shift for several extra hours to ensure the welfare of his colleague was addressed and the relevant evidence was secured.

Joanne Manley and Corrine Ison based at headquarters were awarded the Police Staff Long Service Medal. Their careers collectively span more than 40 years, during which they have both given service in a number of different departments and roles.

A Certificate of Service was awarded to Gillian Heath for her 25 years of service with Dorset Police.

Deputy Chief Constable James Vaughan said: “It is always a real honour to attend these award ceremonies and celebrate the commitment, professionalism and overall hard work of our police officers and staff.

“It is also a fantastic opportunity to recognise the quick and brave actions of members of the public.

“All the recipients thoroughly deserve their awards and should be highly commended for their help in keeping Dorset safe.”