A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD Kilwinning girl who helped save her diabetic dad's life has been honoured at the Scottish First Aid Awards.

Ellie Howie was at home with her dad Robert when she recognised the signs of him becoming dangerously hypoglycaemic – dealing with low blood sugar levels.

From an early age, her parents - who are both volunteers with St Andrew's First Aid - have taught Ellie how to act in such situations, and immediately she knew what to do, supplying her father with chocolate and a sugary drink before calling for help.

Ellie’s calm and measured approach to delivering life-saving support earned her the 'highly commended' accolade at the ceremony last Friday.

Her mum, Denise Alexander, who nominated her for the award, said: “We are just extremely proud of Ellie.

"It would have been a traumatic situation for someone so young, but she didn’t panic. If she didn’t manage to get some sugar snacks or call family for help, by the time I arrived home her dad would more than likely have become dangerously unwell.

“Being a first aider with St Andrew’s myself, it just made me so proud that she is learning the value of first aid.

"People do not realise how serious Type 1 Diabetes can be and highlighting the importance of recognising the signs and symptoms of a hypo can help save lives for others too.”

Stuart Callison, chief executive of St Andrew’s First Aid, said: “We have received some extraordinary tales of heroic acts from people of all ages across Scotland this year.

"We were so impressed with Ellie’s quick-thinking and level head under pressure, especially for her young age, and are thrilled to give her the ‘highly commended’ recognition she deserves.

“It’s something she and her family can be proud of, as it is testament to the work they put in to equip Ellie with the skills she needed should she ever be faced with her dad becoming unwell.

"Ellie’s actions on that day show that young children can play an active role in helping to save a life."