Sunderland security guard who helped save vulnerable woman's life praised by police for selfless actions

Dave Porter, who has worked as a security guard for 27 years, was travelling between Sunderland’s University’s St Peter’s and City Campus during an early-morning shift when he saw a woman in distress on Wearmouth Bridge.

He stopped his vehicle to contact the university’s control room, who then alerted police.

Dave, 65, spoke with the woman and held her through the railings to prevent her from falling. Then, when officers arrived, he then helped lift her to safety.

In recognition of his selfless act, Chief Superintendent Sarah Pitt invited Dave, of Fulwell, to Millbank Police Station and presented him with a Commander’s Compliment.

On receiving his commendation, he said: “I did what anyone would have done to help a vulnerable woman in need. I am pleased that she was brought to safety and that I had the opportunity to make sure she did not come to harm.

“I’d like to thank the police, especially Chief Supt Pitt, for giving up her time to invite me into the station and chat about the incident. I never expected any kind of commendation – so I was blown away by the gesture.”

In 2017, Dave was crowned Security Officer of the Year by the Association of University Security Officers (AUCSO) following his life-saving actions in two separate incidents in Sunderland.

Chief Supt Pitt added: “Dave should be incredibly proud of what he has done. This could have so easily been a different outcome, and we are indebted to him for his quick-thinking and selfless actions.

“It would have been easy for him to continue driving and ignore what he had seen, but by recognising the potential danger that the woman was in, police were able to attend and ensure she was left in the care of health experts.

“As a force, protecting the most vulnerable in our communities is our overriding priority and this case highlights how the public are our eyes and ears. By providing swift information and raising the alarm, I have no doubt that Dave saved that woman’s life.”