Family's thanks after Rawmarsh officer saves man's life

THE family of a vulnerable man who was trapped in his own home for 23 hours have thanked officers for rushing to his rescue.

Police were called to reports of concern for a man at a home on Barber’s Crescent, Rawmarsh, at just after noon yesterday (Tuesday), a police spokesperson said.

Sgt Michael Plant (pictured above, top left), who had recently returned to the nearby police station, set off to the scene on foot.

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He arrived to find the doors locked and the occupant, a vulnerable man in his 60s, seemingly unresponsive, the spokesperson said.

Sgt Plant checked the building as concerned family members gathered outside expecting the worst.

More police officers and firefighters arrived to help get in to the building, the spokesperson said.

When they got inside the officers found the man had fallen and had been stuck for 23 hours, and was in desperate need of assistance.

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Sgt Plant said: “When the call came over the radio, I immediately recognised the address, it’s only round the corner from the station.

“There’s no time to waste in these situations so I set off running.

“I was first on the scene, although I was joined shortly afterwards by my fellow officers and colleagues from the fire service.

“It really was a great team effort.

“I would like to applaud the quick-thinking actions of the man’s family, who reported their concerns and gave us the opportunity to respond in time.

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“Often these situations can have a tragic outcome, which is heart-breaking for all involved, so it’s wonderful to see such a positive result.”

A family member at the scene said: “Within minutes of me calling the police I saw an officer running down the road towards me.

“I couldn’t believe how fast police had responded.

“We thought something really awful had happened.

“It’s completely out of character for him not to answer, so I knew something was wrong.

“I cannot express how grateful I am for the officers who made sure he was OK.

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“Without their help, we don’t know what would have happened.

“Even after they saved him, they stayed to make sure we were all OK and we knew where to go for support and safeguarding advice.

“We’re so grateful.”

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