James Thorp calmly sought help for his two-year-old brother when he began having a seizure at home

James Thorp receives his Unsung Hero Award — James Thorp receiving his Unsung Heroes Award

An Enfield scout has won an award for his “outstanding bravery” during a crisis at his home.

Earlier this month James Thorp was presented with an Unsung Heroes Award in a ceremony at Gilwell Park, the home of UK Scouts, as one of 20 young people selected from more than 100 nominations.

James, then aged nine, was at home with his mum and two younger brothers while his dad – local councillor Andrew Thorp – was at work. While mum was upstairs, she heard a loud crash and shout, as did James.

Rory, James’ youngest brother, then aged two, had been sitting on the stairs when he fell and had a seizure. This was not something that had ever happened before. While Rory was still having the seizure, mum began to administer first aid.

James, recalling his first aid training as a cub scout, remained calm and was able to go and get a trusted neighbour known to the family. James explained what was happening and got them into the house to provide support.

He was able to manage his own emotions in a “highly stressful situation” and waited outside at the front of the house for the ambulance which had been called. While waiting, he calmly explained to other neighbours who also came to assist the family. James remained waiting for the ambulance, waving them in and escorting the paramedics to the house.

Continuing to keep as calm as possible, James went with his other young brother to their grandparents’ house, providing “kindness and reassurance” at a very distressing time for the whole family.

Proud dad, Cllr Thorp, said: “We are so proud of James and his actions to help when his brother Rory suffered a seizure. At cub scouts he learnt what to do in an emergency and used these skills to remain calm when it mattered.

“James is really excited to win an Unsung Heroes Award and is pleased his brother is back to full health.”

The Unsung Heroes Award is a “coveted personal achievement” which recognises the skills and endeavours of young people across the scouts community, ranging in age from five to 20 years. This year’s winners were chosen by an experienced panel of ambassadors led by the chief scout and, between them, have helped save eight lives and raise £56,000 for charitable causes.

Chief scout Dwayne Fields said: “A huge congratulations to the winners of this remarkable award for acts of courage and selflessness in the community. Being part of the scouts provides young people with skills they take with them through life, and the stories of these young people represent the highest form of scouting values.

“I want to thank you for your dedication and celebrate what is a truly outstanding achievement!”

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