NOMINATIONS are open for a prestigious award applauding real-life lifesavers.

St John Ambulance is calling for nominations for its Everyday Heroes awards, recognising people and businesses who have saved lives with their quick thinking, have championed first aid or fundraised for lifesaving equipment.

Last year’s winners included Karen Lawrance from Worcester and Diane Fullerton from Ledbury saved the life of Chris McDonald when he collapsed while visiting their workplace.

Finalists will be incited to an awards ceremony at London’s Lancaster Hotel on Wednesday, July 1 hosted by sports presenter Kirsty Gallacher.

The TV personality’s father – golf legend Bernard Gallacher – could have died after suffering a cardiac arrest in 2013, but his life was saved thanks to first aiders.

“First aid is a cause close to my heart and I can’t wait to celebrate the real heroes who’ve saved lives,” she said.

“First aid can be the difference between life and death and it’s usually down to the actions of bystanders, families, and friends that lives are saved.

“My father’s life was saved because the people around him knew first aid, and every day I am grateful that they had the skills and confidence to know what to do.”

To nominate a person or business for the award visit www.sja.org.uk/everydayheroes before 5pm on Saturday, February 28.