PCSO helps save life of woman choking in Tunbridge Wells

A Tunbridge Wells police community support officer has been praised for helping to save the life of a woman who was choking in her car.

At around 12.45pm on Tuesday 27 June 2023, PCSO Sophie Lusher was driving a police vehicle in Pembury Road, Tunbridge Wells when she spotted a woman in another car who had stopped and was frantically waving her arms.

Life saving training

PCSO Lusher realised the woman was choking on food and having extreme difficulty breathing.

Using first aid skills she was taught as part of her training, she took emergency action to clear the blockage and force the food from her throat. The woman was then taken by PCSO Lusher to a local hospital.

PCSO Lusher, who has worked at Tunbridge Wells Police Station for 16 years, said: ‘My instinct and training kicked in and there was no doubt in my mind that I needed to step in to help this lady, who was clearly in considerable distress. 'After the incident, I remained concerned because of the extreme force I had to use to clear her airway. I’m now delighted and relieved she appears to be making a full recovery, and it has also been lovely to meet up with her at her home’.

Above and beyond

Divisional Commander for West Kent, Chief Superintendent Neil Loudon added: ‘The quick-thinking actions by PCSO Lusher undoubtedly helped to save the life of this woman, and while Sophie may think it is simply ‘part of the job’ she certainly went above and beyond. ‘Our officers and staff do exceptional work every day, most of which the public are not privy to and this incident is just one example of that. We are all extremely proud of PCSO Lusher; she is a credit to herself and to Kent Police.'