A POLICE officer who was first on scene at a fatal crash on the A120 has been commended for his efforts to try and save a man.

In September 2018, PC Jonathan McDonald was called to a fatal road traffic collision on the A120 near Coggeshall.

Robbie Trundley was driving his Ford Fiesta on the eastbound side of the carriageway towards Colchester when he collided with an HGV heading in the opposite direction.

Following the impact, the Volvo lorry lost control and collided with a Ford Transit van which was driving behind Mr Trundley’s vehicle.

Mr Trundley sadly died at the scene.

PC McDonald performed CPR for more than 40 minutes in an attempt to save his life.

At a ceremony today he was commended for his professionalism, dedication and courage throughout the incident.

Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington awarded nine individuals with a commendation.

He said: "It always brings me great pleasure to host these ceremonies to celebrate ordinary individuals taking extra-ordinary steps to help save the lives of others, protect the vulnerable and keep the people of Essex safe.

“It might be what our officers, staff and volunteers do on a daily basis but their actions are courageous and I take great pride in being able to award them.”

Jane Gardner, Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner said: “It’s a privilege to be here to pass on my thanks on behalf of the public.

“I give a special well done to those members of the public receiving awards today for simply being great citizens.”

An inquest earlier this year heard Mr Trundley, who lived in Biggleswade, had strayed onto the opposite side of the road near Salmon’s Corner shortly after navigating a turn in the road.

However, there was no evidence to suggest he had lost control and no faults were found in any of the vehicles involved.

Senior coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray ruled Mr Trundley died as a result of a road traffic collision.