A SCHOOLGIRL has started the school holidays with an extra special award.
 
Eight-year-old Bailie Mannering knew exactly what to do when her mother Leah Lindsey fainted at their Chelmsford home.
She was with her brother Max, aged four, when the incident happened.
Kings Road Primary School pupil Bailie called 999 to summon help.
And the youngster, of Pembroke Place, was presented with a special certificate at school this week for using the ambulance service responsibly.
She made the call on the morning of June 14 after her mum fainted, deciding the best thing to do was to get medical help.
A rapid response vehicle was sent to their home, but thankfully Leah recovered and did not need hospital treatment.
Emergency operator Keri Howard and Sandra Hawes, Chelmsford control’s assistant general manager, visited Bailie during her school assembly on Monday.
They presented her with a certificate of commendation from the East of England Ambulance Service’s chief officer Hayden Newton.
Proud Leah was also invited to the presentation, which was kept as a surprise for Bailie, and the assembly also heard a recording of the 999 call that she made.
Afterwards, the children were given colouring books and stickers from the ambulance service.
Leah said: “She knew something wasn’t right, but didn’t have anyone around to ask for help.
“It’s the first time she’s had to call 999, but she has an old head on young shoulders and knew what to do.
“I’m so proud of her.”
Keri added: “I’m so pleased we’ve been able to present this certificate.
“It was lovely to meet her, and it’s good to know her mum is now OK.”

Original story here.