AFTER her son died and was brought back to life, a mum has helped set up first aid sessions for those wanting to learn vital skills. Last month the Comet told how 13-year-old James Doherty was unconscious for 15 minutes after having a cardiac arrest whi

AFTER her son "died" and was brought back to life, a mum has helped set up first aid sessions for those wanting to learn vital skills.

Last month the Comet told how 13-year-old James Doherty was unconscious for 15 minutes after having a cardiac arrest while playing tennis.

James, of High Street, Codicote was given CPR by passer-by Alan Percy, despite having no first aid training.

The teenager was revived and has made a full recovery.

Since then, mum Sarah has been determined to get more people in the community to learn life saving skills.

As a result St John Ambulance Hertfordshire has offered to run a series of free first aid awareness sessions.

Mum-of-three Sarah said: "After James collapsed I realised just how vital it was for people to learn how to correctly administer CPR, as you never know when you are going to need such a skill.

"Hopefully most people will never need to use the skills they learn at our awareness sessions, but being prepared in case the worst happens, like it did to us, can offer a fantastic peace of mind."

Brian Wingate, chief executive of St John Ambulance Hertfordshire, said: "CPR training can be learnt in such a short amount of time, yet it can potentially save someone's life.

"It is a skill that no one should be without."

A session takes place next Tuesday (November 25) from 8pm to 9.30pm at Codicote Primary School in Meadow Way.

A cash deposit of £5, to be returned at the end of the session, is required to book a place.

To book, call Sarah Doherty on 07588 320550.