THE other day a lady saw a portly gentleman in a distressed state, holding his throat and falling on to his face, apparently choking. She struggled to raise him, and was helped by one man out of a number standing around.

Both of the rescuers were trying to administer the Heimlich Manoeuvre and did eventually accomplish this.

I have felt for some time that 'Heimlich' should be taught in schools.

I understand that choking is quite common, it could occur in the school yard. With children in numbers there, many would know what to do.

BILL AUSTIN, Bute Road, Blackburn.