Derbyshire Dales: Hero girls honoured with lifesaver awards

It was an emotional evening for a pair of young heroes as they were presented with awards for their bravery two years after an horrific crash.

Friends Rachel Hanlon, of Matlock Bath, Georgina Needham, of Darley Dale, were the first on the scene of the crash at the junction of Birkin Lane and the A632, in Kelstedge, on September 20,2012, that claimed the lives of teenagers Connor Short, of Ashover, and Liam Chapman, of Clay Cross.

The girls, both volunteers for St John Ambulance, leapt into action to save the boys – Georgina, 23 , took one crash victim to hospital, while Rachel, 18, got in the car with the boys and tried to help them while the emergency services worked to release them.

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The Royal Human Society awarded Rachel a testimonial on parchment for her efforts to save the pair, while Georgina was awarded a Certificate of Commendation at a ceremony hosted by Derbyshire police last week.

Rachel said: “It was quite emotional. I felt very honoured.

“It was really good to have Georgina there and my dad and my partner.

“The support I have from my family made it easier to go.”

She explained that she and Georgina were the only civilians to receive awards that night, the rest of the awards were for police officers.

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“Seeing Connor’s mum was quite difficult because I have not met her before, but it was amazing to meet her.

“She’s such an honourable lady coming along and having to hear about the crash again – I have got a lot of admiration for her.”

Chris Thornton, director for St John Ambulance East Midlands, said: “We are pleased to hear that they have been recognised with this award.”