Former Harborough GP Saves Man’s Life

A former GP at Market Harborough Medical Centre is being praised for saving the life of a man who stopped breathing during a chess game.

Simon Gay immediately began CPR when he saw Richard Hanscombe collapse and continued to do so, with the help of others, until paramedics arrived.

He was rushed to hospital and spent a month receiving treatment before being allowed home.

Richard Hanscombe (far right) with wife, Paulette, daughter, Helen and Professor Simon Gay

Simon from the Langtons, a professor at Leicester University and member of Market Harborough Chess Club, had been with the team playing a match in Leicester when the drama unfolded.

He told HFM Richard has recently paid him a surprise visit and what happened highlights the importance of people knowing basis CPR:

Richard Hanscombe surrounded by his family in hospital following his recovery

Richard, whose wife Paulette has described Simon as a ‘miracle man’ told HFM it was important he visited Simon to say a personal thank you for saving his life: