A BRAVE toddler who saved her mum’s life after dialling 999 has been rewarded with a trip to the police.

Sofia Harman, of Clacton, was invited to the Force Control Room at Police HQ in Chelmsford to meet the worker who took her call last month.

She was also presented with a bravery certificate and a cuddly toy.

The recording of Sofia’s call has been released to encourage other parents to talk to their children about what to do in case of an emergency.

Call taker Julie Buckley said: ‘Sofia is the real hero. For a child of her age, it was amazing that she knew exactly what to do.

“It was great meeting her and seeing just what it means to her family.”

Gazette:

Visit - Sofia Harman, Patricia Hannington, her partner Sam, Julie Buckley and Dep Chief Con Matt Horne

Sofia, three, called Essex Police after her mum Patricia Hannington collapsed from a heart condition while painting the kitchen of the family home in Clacton.

Patricia suffers from a rare medical condition which causes her heart rate to speed and heart pressure to plummet.

She had repeatedly told Sofia what to do if she ever fell ill when no one else is around, showing her how to use her mobile phone.

Patricia’s partner, Sam, was out at work during the incident.

But quick-thinking Sofia knew exactly what to do and pulled the phone from the charger, calling 999.

Essex Police contact handler Julie kept Sofia talking about her pet dog whilst working against the clock to locate her address.

Julie began searching for her address in the force intelligence systems and officers were sent to Patricia’s old address.

However, she persevered and was able to track down the pair.

Police and ambulance arrived at the property just as Patricia’s partner returned home.

Patricia was taken to hospital where she received emergency treatment.

She said: “I’m so proud of Sofia. We’ve had a lovely day today and it was nice to meet Julie to say thank you in person.

“Listening to the call, I’m amazed she was able to keep Sofia talking for so long.

“I want to get across to other parents it’s never too early to speak to their children about calling 999.

“I'm lucky to have such a brave little girl who knew what to do.”

Gazette:

Quick-thinking - Sofia Harman receiving her bravery certficate

Deputy Chief Constable Matt Horne said: “We are all very proud of Sofia and our emergency operator Julie.

“Sofia, having just turned three, knew exactly what to do when her mum collapsed - this is because her mum took the time to explain and teach Sofia this important life skill.

“We have released the recording today because Sophia’s family want other families to know we must start teaching our children how to call for help as early as possible.

“To be able to meet this very special little girl, and to see her meet with Julie, was lovely.”