AMBULANCE service operative Jackie Smith was hailed a heroine - after helping save a stroke victim's life...by telephone.

Jackie, of the Livesey Branch Road area, became the first mercy service phone operator to put a new emergency procedure to the test - and proved what a cool customer she is.

Jackie's skilful advice was needed when pensioner Cora Utley suffered a severe stroke. Her daughter, Gillian, phoned the Lancashire Ambulance Service in Preston and was put on to Jackie.

Recalling the drama, Jackie said: "I just had to calm Gillian down, she was in such a state."

"It was the first time I had ever dealt with a life-threatening call, but I was well prepared for it.

"Gillian said her mum had stopped breathing and was very sick. I told her to lie Mrs Utley down and not to panic, the ambulance was on its way."

During the six critical minutes it took for the ambulance to get to the 82-year-old's house in Burnley, Jackie drew on all her training from the county's new pre-arrival advice scheme.

The emergency service had been running for only a week when the phone operator received her first live 999 call.

"I had gone to pieces," said Gillian. "Jackie handled everything so well. She calmed me down and with her help I was able to help my mum.

"I had no idea what to do and without Jackie I don't think my mum would be here today - she's a real life saver."

Mrs Utley was taken to Burnley General Hospital where she is now comfortable and recovering slowly.

Jackie was delighted when Gillian came to thank her at the ambulance control room in Preston.

"I was really touched," she added. "I never expect any thanks because it's all part of the job, but Gillian's visit was very rewarding."

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