A HOLIDAYMAKER returned to a popular Dorset attraction to thank a member of staff for saving his life.

Paul Edison, his wife and four sons were on a day out at The Tank Museum in Bovington when he went into anaphylactic shock, having been stung by a wasp moments earlier.

Tank Museum events co-ordinator, Nicky Croom, was the duty first aider and went to help.

She said: "When Paul sought attention he was fine, he was in a bit of pain and it was clear he had been stung in the neck. But within minutes his face had turned purple, he was sweating and he began to suffer fits."

An ambulance was called, but Paul was quickly deteriorating.

Nicky added: "By now he was struggling to breathe, his temperature and heart rate had risen dramatically and he was struggling to stay awake.

"I knew that it was vital to keep him calm, cool and that it was essential to keep him conscious."

The family, from Lincoln, were staying in Weymouth.

Paul's wife, Lisa, said: "I'm a first aider myself, but I was panicking and in a bit of a daze.

"Paul had been stung before but never reacted like this, it was a very scary time for me and the boys.

"Nicky was brilliant; she took control of the situation, kept us all calm and kept Paul talking until the ambulance arrived 20 minutes later. The paramedics said that Nicky's actions saved Paul's life."

Paul, 36, was taken to Dorset County Hospital, Dorchester, where he was monitored for a few hours before being released to continue his holiday.

Armed with a bouquet of flowers, Paul and his family returned to the museum on Friday to visit Nicky and thank her for her efforts.

Paul said: "I've recovered well from my ordeal, but I was keen to stress my gratitude. I wanted to tell Nicky that I will never forget her."

Nicky, from Bere Regis, added: "I was just doing what I had been trained to do. I am just pleased that I could help."

Tank Museum director, Richard Smith, praised Nicky for the way she dealt with the life-threatening situation.