AN Army cadet has been honoured after a real life emergency put his First Aid skills to the test.

Cadet Band Sergeant Major Callum Mellis, of the Durham Army Cadet Force Band and Bugles, based in Chester-le-Street, was visiting a museum when an elderly visitor collapsed and suffered a head injury.

She was initially unconscious, but the cadet placed her into the recovery position to maintain her airway, then once she had come round he treated the head injury and reassured her until the ambulance arrived.

He has now become one of five cadets from around the country honoured at the British Red Cross Humanitarian Citizen Awards, held at the House of Commons.

The annual event, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, that recognizes the achievements of young people under 25 in a range of achievements that include volunteering and fundraising as well as first aid.

Lieutenant Colonel Alan Sharkey, chairman of the ACF National First Aid Panel, said that it was humbling and a privilege to share their day with these young people.

He said “Each of these stories show that army cadets step up and act when others don’t.

“The awards today are a magnificent testimonial to ACF training, not just in first aid but in the citizenship skills that come shining through what these young people achieved”.