A GRATEFUL couple have finally been able to hand over a prestigious award to a quick-thinking personal trainer who saved one of their lives.

Jill and Kevin Woods nominated David Hodgson for a Royal Humane Society award, after he performed lifesaving CPR to Mr Woods earlier this year.

In January, while working out at the Pure Leisure gym at South Lakeland Leisure Village, at Borwick, Mr Woods suddenly became ill and collapsed.

Mr Hodgson, of Burton-in-Kendal, stepped in and performed CPR until emergency services - including an air ambulance - arrived to the scene.

The award, which recognises the heroic efforts of individuals who have performed lifesaving interventions, was presented to Mr Hodgson by Mr Woods on November 4.

The couple, who run Small Planet Travel Ltd in Kirkby Lonsdale, nominated Mr Hodgson for the award to show their gratitude for his life saving actions and were waiting until Covid restrictions allowed them to present the award in person.

They found out he had been accepted for the award in September.

Speaking to the Gazette shortly after the incident Mr Hodgson said he was just pleased he was able to help.

He was also commended by the North West Ambulance Service and was praised by his employer.

Speaking in January director of corporate affairs at the South Lakeland Leisure Village Trevor White said: “Dave was instrumental in saving that man’s life.

"He did what he felt he needed to do. Along with other members of staff he did an excellent job on the day."