Postie delivers for those in distress

Apr 22 2008 By Alison Dayani

POSTMAN Martin Wilkes has proved he really is first class when it comes to saving lives.

The Royal Mail first aid expert has helped deliver a baby, given the kiss of life to a colleague suffering a heart attack and treated more than 300 work pals and members of the public over the past two decades.

Mail bosses have now honoured Martin with a long service first aid award.

Father-of-two Martin, aged 42, of Oldbury, said: "I do it for the love of it.

"It is very rewarding helping people, treating injuries and saving lives."

Martin added that he first decided to train as a first aider after his dad suffered a heart attack and wanted to know what he could do if his father ever had another one.

He then became a dedicated member of Royal Mail's first aid association called Post Office First Aid Services.

Martin added: "One man who collapsed at work after suffering a heart attack and I gave him mouth to mouth and brought him back to life."

In 1989, during the ambulance strike, volunteer Martin even helped deliver a baby.

The postie, who processes mail at Birmingham Mail Centre in Aston, was presented with an award by Royal Mail's area general manager Ian Jones.

Ian said: "This is a marvellous achievement and I pass on my congratulations to Martin.

"His voluntary work as a first aider has not only helped his colleagues in the mail centre but also people in the community where he lives."

Martin was presented with a certificate and badge from Post Office First Aid Services and St John Ambulance.

He is one of the longestserving members of Post Office First Aid Services.