A NORTH Yorkshire PCSO who was once honoured for his role in saving a man’s life has died after an illness - aged just 46.

Tributes were today paid to Lee Johnson, who lived in Osbaldwick, York, with his partner Louise and had worked with North Yorkshire Police for more than 11 years.

He first served as a police community support officer (PCSO) at Fulford Road police station from 2007 to 2012, before transferring to join the team in Acomb.

PCSO Johnson was on routine patrol when he saw 66-year-old Raymond Towell collapse in Blossom Street in August 2012, and carried out CPR until a paramedic arrived with a defibrillator, stabilising Mr Towell over eight minutes, and saving his life.

He was awarded a Royal Humane Certificate for his efforts, as well as a North Yorkshire Police commendation.

In 2017 PCSO Johnson joined the Criminal Justice Department and worked as a witness care officer based at Athena House, and also covered the Micklegate ward and South Bank as a PCSO.

Friend and fellow PCSO Keith Hall said: “He did a lot of excellent work at Knavesmire Primary School and was extremely popular with pupils and staff.

“Lee was involved in a number of projects whilst employed as a PCSO with the Micklegate team. He was extremely popular with his team mates.

"An accomplished musician playing drums and guitar, he spent some of his time touring pubs and clubs as a solo singer in his spare time.”

PCSO Hall said PCSO Johnson “had been poorly for some time and sadly lost his long brave fight on Sunday, January 20”, at the age of 46.

He said: “Lee will be greatly missed by all his colleagues at North Yorkshire Police”.

North Yorkshire Police Deputy Chief Constable Phil Cain said: “Lee always had a smile and a kind word for everyone when you saw him.

“He will be sorely missed by colleagues and communities alike. Thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.”

A funeral service will be held at York Crematorium at 12.20pm on Friday, February 8, followed by a celebration of PCSO Johnson's life at the Derwent Arms in Osbaldwick.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Renal Unit at York Hospital.