A POLICE officer has been handed a prestigious award for his attempts to save a young man's life.

PC Toby Wells was one of six officers to receive a commendation from chief con Ben-Julian Harrington during a special ceremony in Chelmsford last week.

PC Wells was off duty in Braintree in January last year when he saw a young woman outside a block of flats in distress and screaming for help.

He approached the woman who told him that her partner had taken his own life.

PC Wells forced his way into the flat before he began CPR on the man with the assistance of another member of the public.

PC Wells was unable to save the man's life but was commended for his bravery, professionalism and dedication.

Speaking at last week's awards ceremony, chief con BJ Harrington said: "It might be what our officers, staff and volunteers do on a daily basis but their actions are courageous and I take great pride in being able to award them.”

“A special well done to the off-duty officers who stepped in to support the emergency services in difficult and dangerous situations.”