A hero teenager who administered first aid to an infant earned her one a top award from Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service.

Eastern Daily Press: Jess Auston with her award, presented by fire cadet leader Harry Powell. Photo: Bob DartsJess Auston with her award, presented by fire cadet leader Harry Powell. Photo: Bob Darts (Image: BOB DARTS robdarts@gmail.com IP256UW)

Fire cadet Jess Auston's quick thinking helped a situation from becoming much worse earlier this month when a toddler ran into the corner of a table.

The 17-year-old lept to action and helped administer first aid treat the injury prevent the child from getting more distressed.

She said: 'A lot of people might see that amount of blood and panic or be a bit squeamish but once I cleaned the wound it wasn't too bad.

'I haven't done something like this in real life before but with the fire cadets we did so much training that when it came to it I knew what to do.'

Eastern Daily Press: Jess Auston, 17, was made crew manager of her fire cadets unit last week. Photo: Harriet OrrellJess Auston, 17, was made crew manager of her fire cadets unit last week. Photo: Harriet Orrell (Image: Archant)

The incident happened at the pub where Jess works, The Crown Inn in Pulham Market, and her manager helped in the first aid effort.

She has been a fire cadet for four years and plans to pursue a career as a firefighter.

Jess was also promoted to crew manager for her unit of 11 fire cadets earlier this week.

'There are so many strong role models in my life and I was brought up to be aware of people around me,' she said.

Eastern Daily Press: Jess Auston, 17, learned first aid at the fire cadets which she has attended for four years. Photo: Harriet OrrellJess Auston, 17, learned first aid at the fire cadets which she has attended for four years. Photo: Harriet Orrell (Image: Archant)

'It was incredible to be given the award, I wasn't expecting it at all.

'People around me were getting awards for forty years of service and other distinguishing parts of their career and it was an honour to be among them.'

The teen is about to embark on a two-year course in public service at Easton College and also hopes to volunteer as a Special Police Constable in her spare time.

As one of only two cadets to receive an award at the ceremony on Thursday Jess was also given the privilege of meeting Norfolk's chief fire officer David Ashworth.

He said: 'It's a privilege to lead our service and I want to thank all NFRS staff for doing all they can to make our communities safe and providing an excellent emergency response.'

If any charities or businesses would like fire cadets to volunteer with them, get in touch with Jess at jessica.auston4@gmail.com