PC Sean Knowles, who saved a man’s life while he was off duty, has been recognised by BTP Federation for his extraordinary courage, selflessness and decisive action.
In April 2026, after finishing a long shift and travelling home, PC Knowles noticed a man who had collapsed on the platform at Manchester Oxford Road. Without hesitation, he left his train, assessed the situation and quickly established that the man was not breathing.
PC Knowles immediately began CPR and, with the help of a member of the public, expertly managed CPR and defibrillation until paramedics arrived. His calm, composed and professional response under extreme pressure was central to saving the man’s life.
The impact of his actions was later made clear in a heartfelt message from the man he helped, who explained that he had suffered a cardiac arrest, spent around ten days in an induced coma, and had no memory of the incident. He credited PC Knowles’ swift intervention and effective CPR with giving him the chance to return home to his wife and three children.
This incident powerfully demonstrates PC Knowles’ dedication and integrity. Although he was off duty, tired after a long shift and simply making his way home, he instinctively stepped forward when someone’s life was in danger. His actions reflect the reality that police officers are never truly off duty when the public needs help.
Stuart Cowan, Chair of BTP Federation, said: “My initial reactions when I heard what PC Knowles did were disbelief, admiration, and of course, great pride.
“Many people take policing for granted. When they commute and go about their business, they rightly expect to be safe. But it’s not that simple, and this story shows that officers are always there to help, even when they’re not on duty.
“This officer’s courage, compassion and quick thinking meant a man returned home to his family when the odds were stacked against him. PC Sean Knowles is the very best of us.”
PC Sean Knowles received the Chair’s Award at the British Transport Police Federation’s Awards of Excellence ceremony in Glasgow. Unbeknown to PC Knowles, the Federation had arranged for Mark Duncan, the man whose life the officer saved, to attend the event and present the award.
Mark Duncan is pictured with PC Sean Knowles and Stuart Cowan, Chair of BTP Federation
