Carl Ward

A Reading FC staff member who performed life-saving CPR, despite having no formal training, has been nominated for the Local Hero Award, sponsored by Green Park.

Carl Ward was working alone in the club’s control room when Colin Elliott entered and suddenly suffered a cardiac arrest in front of him.

Without hesitation, Carl began CPR and continued until paramedics and the Thames Valley Air Ambulance arrived and were able to take over treatment.

“His tireless efforts saved Colin’s life.” the nominator said.

Paramedics continued working on Colin after his heart stopped twice more. He was later taken to hospital, where he received an implanted defibrillator, and has since returned to living as normal a life as possible.

The incident has also led to important changes at the football club. All matchday staff have now received CPR training, and the ambulance service is planning a sponsored ‘CPRathon’ in September 2026, which Reading FC will fully support.

“Carl is a real hero and lifesaver,” said the nominator. “There is no doubt that without what he did, Colin would not be with us today.”