Hero paperboy saves pensioner in fumes alert

A PAPERBOY saved the life of a semi-conscious pensioner after iced-up vents caused a build-up of carbon monoxide in her North Yorkshire home.

Dan Eggleton, 17, from Scarborough, was hailed a hero after he noticed a strange smell as he posted a newspaper through the woman's letterbox and raised the alarm.

A Northern Gas Networks engineer was quickly sent to the property and the 72-year-old woman, who had been drifting in and out of consciousness, was rescued.

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The engineer discovered the recent freezing temperatures had caused vents which remove fumes to ice up, resulting in a build-up of the potentially lethal gas in the home.

Dan, who has worked as a paperboy for six months, said: "I noticed a strange smell when I was putting the newspaper through the letterbox.

"I was going to knock on the door but I was worried about her switching a light on and causing an explosion.

"I called the shop and asked them to ring for help as I thought that was the safest thing to do."

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The quick-thinking teenager, who was presented with 50-worth of gift vouchers by Northern Gas Networks for his actions, added: "I'm really pleased the lady is now safe and well."

The woman, who asked not to be identified, thanked Dan for saving her life.

She said: "I'm so grateful. He's saved my life. I was nodding off a lot and, who knows, without him helping out I might not have woken up again."

John O'Grady, director of communications at Northern Gas Networks, said: "Dan's responsible actions have potentially saved this lady's life."

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Mr O'Grady said anyone who smells gas or thinks they are suffering from the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning should contact the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on freephone 0800 111999.