A PCSO who battled to save a toddler’s life has been awarded with a police commendation for professionalism and quick-thinking actions.

Nasrin Toofail was faced with a difficult situation last year when a distraught mother approached her saying her two-year-old son had been run over.

The child was not breathing and was bleeding from the ears and Mrs Toofail from Goodmayes Safer Neighbourhood Team took action making sure his airway was clear and putting him in the recovery position before calling an ambulance.

She performed resuscitation in an attempt to revive him and he came round as the emergency services arrived.

Unfortunately the toddler died later that day but Mrs Toofail has been praised for her efforts in trying to save his life at Redbridge Police’s Commendation Ceremony held at Wanstead Golf Club in Overton Drive last week.

She said: “What happened is still like a video clip in my head and I had a lot of nightmares for a couple of weeks.

“He had been walking with his mother but he let go of her hand and was run over.

“He was in my arms when the ambulance arrived and I did the best I could to help him.”

She added: “I am very proud of my commendation and it makes me feel valued and happy.”

Mrs Toofail was one of a number of officers presented with commendations for acts of bravey, compassion, professionalism and commitment.

This also included PCSO Tracy Armes from Seven Kings whose community contacts led to the arrest and conviction of a man for serious assault and theft.

Borough Commander Sue Williams told an audience how impressed she was with the dedication and levels of commitment shown by the officers.

She said: “It is my great pleasure to be able to say thank you to my colleagues for all their hard work and for that dedication to the Metropolitan Police Service to be witnessed today by their family and friends who should also be proud of them.

The Mayor of Redbridge Cllr Jim O’Shea added: “I want to thank you as you put your lives at risk to care for those in the community.

“It is carers like you who make us a decent, civilised society.”