A quick-thinking leisure centre worker who saved a man's life has said defibrillators "should be everywhere". 

Katie Porter-Burrows Crossley, aged 25, was working at the Smithills Sports Centre in May this year when a 71-year-old gent collapsed in the middle of his badminton game. 

The man stopped breathing, but the intervention of Katie, other bystanders and paramedics brought him back to consciousness. 

He went to hospital following the incident, but is now said to be doing better and is looking to make a return to badminton. 

Katie said: "He is one of our regulars. He is very cheerful, well-respected and encourages everyone to join in and be involved. 

Katie's quick thinking saved the man's lifeKatie's quick thinking saved the man's life (Image: Public)

"They had nearly finished the match when he just froze and collapsed and hit his head on the steps. His teammate came running in saying he needed first aid. 

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"I went in and checked him over, he stopped breathing so I did CPR and got someone to get the defibrillator, that brought him back in time for the paramedics to keep going. 

"When he got to the hospital he had to go into a coma, but he is doing better now and came in to see us all and thank us." 

KatieKatie (Image: Public)

She added: "That was delightful, I feel I did the right thing. The defibrillator had been there for years and had never been used. 

"It was traumatic and frightening, I kept thinking am I doing it right, I didn't want to make it worse. 

"I did end up breaking his ribs. 

"Defibrillators are just so important, they should be everywhere, especially in public places. If it was anywhere else, it is unlikely he would have been rescued."

She added: "Everyone should be trained on how to save a life and use defibrillators.

"The receptionist I was on with had to deal with the crowds, as we had people coming in for other bookings. She deserves a mention. 

"Someone else also alternated with me with the CPR."