A quick-thinking paramedic who managed to stop an erratic driver in his tracks has been handed a police award.

Barbara Shreeve was presented with a Certificate of Merit from Chief Superintendent Rachel Nolan, of Essex Police after an incident in Loughton last October.

The medic was on a night shift on a rapid response vehicle when she spotted a man driving erratically.

She was able to stop the driver and call for back-up and waited at the scene until police arrived.

Barbara said: “I am sure anyone would have done the same as he was swerving over the other side of the road.

“I just pulled the driver over and an officer from Loughton came to assist me while I waited for the police. I think the chap was about four times over the limit. I was quite surprised to get the award.”

The man was arrested by officers and later charged with drink driving.

Supt Nolan said: “I want to praise Barbara’s quick thinking and courage to stop the vehicle.

“She saw the vehicle was being driven erratically, recognised the potential harm it posed to other road users, and took action to stop it despite the potential risk to herself.

“Her actions may well have prevented tragedy.”