A PENSIONER who learned lifesaving first-aid skills at the age of 79 is encouraging fellow residents to follow his example and help make Malvern a safer place.

Alan Sewell, of Dereham Court, Worcester Road, was one of the first people to take a St John Ambulance course for the scheme run by the Malverns Neighbourhood Watch.

The initiative aims to get one person on every street in Malvern trained in first aid and has been partly funded by the Community Safety Partnership.

Mr Sewell did his training at the Octagon, in Brook Farm Drive, during May, and is now urging others to sign up.

Mr Sewell said he had been dubious about the benefits of the course but, having done the training, is now convinced that more need to take part.

He said: “I wasn’t sure, especially when I went in and there were lots of people younger than me, but it was very interesting and I learned a lot. I didn’t know any first aid and now I feel like I have the knowledge to deal with an emergency.

“There are elderly residents in my block of flats and it is good to know I could help them if needed.”

Neighbourhood Watch coordinator Martin Lawrence said: “I am delighted Alan found the training so beneficial. I hope people follow his example and take advantage of the course.”

Anyone interested in a course can contact Martin Lawrence at friends@theoctagon.org.uk.