A HEROIC council worker whose quick-thinking helped save a biker from having his leg being amputated after a serious accident has been recognised for his "amazing" efforts.

Billy Crossman, Basildon Council's community development officer, was nominated for an improving lives award by PC Chris Burch, from Essex Police.

He received his award at Basildon Council's 2016 staff awards, which recognise employees whose efforts improve the lives of the borough's residents.

The improving lives award is the council's first publicly nominated award.

Mr Crossman was presented with the award for his quick thinking in administering first aid at the scene of a serious traffic accident in Basildon last year, as well as his dedication towards tackling knife crime in the borough.

He provided vital assistance, working with the police and ambulance service to administer first aid to the victim of the motorbike accident, prevented the victim’s leg from amputation.

PC Chris Burch and the victim of the accident, Carl Evett, were present at the awards.

Mr Burch said: “This was one of the worst injuries I had seen in all my years of policing and Billy remained with the injured party and assisted the ambulance for over an hour.

"I simply could not have done it without him. I have been involved in projects with Billy for over two years now and his enthusiasm and professionalism never cease to amaze me, the Basildon community benefit greatly from his work.”

Mr Crossman was also recognised for his exceptional work in organising the Pitsea anti-knife crime march in November and putting into effect knife amnesty bins.

The march, which started at Basildon Upper Academy, in Wickford Avenue, and ended in Northlands Park, was attended by more than 60 people, including relatives of Darren Kelly, who was stabbed to death in Pitsea the previous month.

Mr Crossman was praised at the awards for helping to raise awareness of knife crime in the area.

As part of the initiative, a knife amnesty bin was placed outside Chalvedon Community Centre, in Chalvedon Square, with "no questions asked" of those who disposed of blades.

Council staff were nominated for a variety of categories at the ceremony, held at the Towngate Theatre, in St Martin's Square, including improving lives, innovation, community outcomes, value for money and partnership.

Council chief executive Bala Mahendran said: “Council staff make a vital contribution in delivering services to residents and businesses in the borough daily.

"I’m proud of our staff and the work they do to make an immense difference in the borough and the awards recognise their talent and commitment.”