A SUICIDE attempt in west Swindon is the call that still haunts seasoned constable Pedro Wiltshire.

In June last year, PC Wiltshire was on patrol in the town when he was called to reports of a man on a bridge over Whitehill Way.

The 53-year-old, who has 18 years’ experience in uniform, was first on the scene.

He parked his panda car across the busy road to stop the traffic before heading up to the bridge.

The man who had sparked the 999 call-out was on the phone to health professionals. His eyes were glazed and, despite calling his name, the man appeared completely oblivious to PC Wiltshire’s presence.

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PC Wiltshire said: “He had this vacant stare. It’s a look I’ll never forget.

“He turned round to talk to someone over his right shoulder. There was no one there. It was the voices. He was telling them to shut up.”

As the man began to clamber over the railings, PC Wiltshire ran up and grabbed hold of his right leg.

The officer could feel his own legs lift from the ground. Despite fearing he may be pulled from the bridge, his grip held and he was able to haul the man onto the bridge.

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PC Wiltshire said: “He just hugged me. He put his head against mine. I said to him: ‘Look at me. Ignore the voices and listen to me. I’m here. I’m going to help.’”

The officer was handed a Chief Constable’s Commendation. Awards were given to three other officers who had helped people in similar situations.

Mental health crises made up an increasing proportion of officers’ work, PC Wiltshire said.

If you've been affected by any of the issues in this article and need support, please contact the Samaritans on 116123.