Praise for Connall’s quick-thinking help (From Echo)

Praise for Connall’s quick-thinking help

10:00am Monday 3rd September 2012 in News By Luke Lambert

AN 11-year-old boy, who came to the rescue of a woman who fell on an uneven pavement, knew how to help after learning about safety at school.

Connall Mahoney sprang into action after hearing the cries of Jackie Shiraishi, who had tripped on a section of pavement, in Westwood Road, Canvey , on Friday, August 17.

Connall, who was riding his scooter, was one of the first people on the scene, along with Mrs Shiraishi’s grand-daughter, Buffy.

He told Mrs Shiraishi to remain calm. He raced to a neighbour’s house and made sure they called an ambulance because his mobile phone wasn’t working.

Connall knew what to do after attending a Crucial Crew course organised by his school, Lubbins Park Primary, at the Paddocks Community Centre.

It gave children the chance to meet ambulance, police and fire service crews and learn how to help in an emergency.

Diane, Connall’s mum, said she was very proud of her “brave and courageous son”.

She said: “He’s my little hero. He is always keen to help people and has such a kind heart. He really helped Jackie as I couldn’t believe it when I saw her.

“She was in a really bad way.”

Diane said Connall had been raving about Crucial Crew since it had finished and just wanted to put his new skills to the test.

She added: “He had such a great time and was really enthusiastic about the whole programme. Normally he is quite reserved, but he couldn’t stop talking about this.”

Mrs Shiraishi, 68, spent four days in Southend Hospital after breaking her nose in the fall.

She said things could have been much worse if it hadn’t been for Connall’s quick thinking.

Mrs Shiraishi added: “All I remember seeing was a pair of shoes and some small wheels.

“He was a lovely young boy and I couldn’t be more grateful.

“Connall and Buffy were my saviours, and I dread to think what might have happened if they hadn’t been with me.”

Helen Collins, of Castle Point Community Safety Partnership, organisers of Crucial Crew, said: “He is to be commended for his presence of mind, coolness under pressure and concern for other people. He is a credit not only to himself, but to his family and his school.”

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