Quick thinking by two members of a rugby club proved vital in saving the life of a man.

Lynsey Rumney and Sarah Pratt, both members of Carlisle Cougars RUFC, acted fast and began CPR on the member of the public after he went into cardiac arrest outside the clubhouse on Saturday evening (November 11).

They then continued to help the paramedics while he was treated and stabilised.

"Luckily, due to the quick actions of those around him, we are relieved to say that he is now recovering in hospital," a spokesperson from the club said.

They continued: "In what was an absolutely horrendous situation for everyone, Lynsey and Sarah worked together, directed those around them, managed to keep calm and put their training into practice.

"Their actions on that evening were life-saving.

"CPR training is a vital skill that we all hope to never have to put into practice, but it’s invaluable.

"So please, if you haven’t already, make it a priority to do your training or participate in a refresher course.

"Carlisle Women’s Rugby team and the rest of Carlisle Rugby Club wish a strong recovery to the gentleman and send our love to the rest of his family.

"Lynsey and Sarah, you’re a credit to the club and we’re so proud of your efforts that night.

"The Carlisle Cougars go by a mantra of “Through Thick and Thin” - and you most definitely displayed that on Saturday night."

The club thanked Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service which provided free CPR training to the members pre-season.

On the topic of CPR, A&E consultant at the NHS Dr Jim Crawford has spoken of its likelihood of success, and his words help illustrate the man's luck in surviving.

He said: "National statistics show that just 20 per cent survive and go on to leave hospital in a relatively good state.

"This percentage decreases with age and frailty – and, if you are already in hospital with a serious condition and your condition deteriorates to such an extent that you have a cardiac arrest, the chances of CPR being successful are virtually zero."

CPR instructions are broadly the same and are easy to remember, and serve as a way to buy the patient some time while paramedics are on their way.

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) have explained how to do CPR.

The charity said that if you see someone in cardiac arrest, you should call 999 and immediately start CPR - instructions will be given to you.

For more information, visit their website at https://www.bhf.org.uk/how-you-can-help/how-to-save-a-life/how-to-do-cpr.