AN Argus paperboy hailed a hero after he went to the rescue of a pensioner with a broken pelvis has been named young lifesaver of the year.

Daniel O’Brien, 16 was on his paper round in Oak Road, Rogerstone with his nine-year old sister Lauren in February of last year when he went to the house of customer Hilda Everson.

Lauren heard cries from inside the house and Daniel shouted through the door.

Mrs Everson had been lying on the floor for two hours after falling, unable to reach her emergency button.

Quick-thinking Daniel, of Tregwillym Road, Rogerstone found a neighbour who was able to enter the house.

He called for an ambulance and was given step by step first aid instructions by the operator.

“We were told to get a clean dry towel and put pressure on a cut she had to stop her her bleeding,” recalled Daniel at the time.

Mrs Everson was then taken to the Royal Gwent Hospital where she was treated for a fractured pelvis.

The former Bassaleg pupil was named Young Lifesaver of the Year by St John Ambulance Service at an award ceremony in Techniquest, Cardiff on Tuesday.

Daniel was nominated for the award by his former year of head at school, Stephen Lockwood.

Daniel, who plans to study sport and development at Crosskeys College in September, said he only found out about the award on Monday.

“I was very surprised and overwhelmed,” he said.

Daniel’s parents Sean and Deborah O’Brien say they are very proud of him.

Since the incident Daniel has successfully completed a lifeguard award, which includes a first aid qualification.

Dr Bob Broughton, chief commander for St John Ambulance in Wales praised Daniel.

“That Daniel was able to help someone in need goes to show how important it is for everyone to be learning First Aid-it is a great achievement for him.”

  • Mrs Emerson, the pensioner he rescued died six months ago. Daniel went to her funeral.