Clever Callum is a Local Hero

Jan 3 2008 By Patrice John, Birmingham Mail

A SCHOOLBOY who saved his dad's life after having just one First Aid lesson is our latest Local Hero.

Callum Batham, aged eight, came to the rescue of his 31-year-old dad Lee while they were out walking the family dog.

And the actions of the youngster were so outstanding he was given the honour of meeting the Princess Royal.

Callum's dad Lee, from Pensnett, Brierley Hill, said: "The main thing he liked about meeting the Princess Royal was having the chance to be the centre of attention.

"Since he's been back at school some of the children have been asking him for autographs and it's almost like he's become a little bit of a celebrity.

"This is fantastic and Callum will really like receiving this Local Hero award.

"I am just so happy that he is getting this kind of recognition.

"Without him, I would not be here. I would have been dead and so I owe him my life."

Callum was with his dad when he suffered a life-threatening seizure while the two of them were walking their Jack Russell terrier Podge in the Fens Pool nature reserve near their home. Lee swallowed his tongue but Callum kept his cool, pulled his tongue from the back of his throat and laid his dad in the recovery position.

Callum, who is a member of the Brierley Hill St John Ambulance Quad Division Badger Sett, had had just one First Aid lesson before the frightening incident.

Last month he was awarded the Roy Follett Badger of the Year Award for saving Lee's life and was invited to Buck-ingham Palace for the St John Ambulance Young Achievers Reception where he met the Princess Royal.

The annual event celebrates the achievements of St John Ambulance volunteers who have done something exceptional.

Lee said: "I was suffering from a stress-related illness which had caused swelling of the brain. It also caused me to have fits and that's what happened when I was out with Callum and the dog.

"I would not be here today if it was not for Callum, I am so proud of him." ..SUPL: