Paperboy saves pensioner's life

John Smith thanked Ryan for saving his life

A paperboy saved the life of a pensioner after spotting the man's home was on fire during his delivery round.

Ryan Mason, 13, saw smoke coming from the letterbox of John Smith's bungalow in Winscombe, Somerset, and immediately ran for help.

The 89-year-old had fallen asleep in his armchair while cooking his dinner in a chip pan.

Fire chiefs said the teenager had acted correctly by raising the alarm as quickly as possible with a neighbour.

"I ran to the nearest house and said they needed to phone the fire brigade and could they come and look if it was a proper fire," said Ryan.

"They came over and knocked on the door.

"[Mr Smith] woke up and came to the door and when he came out, loads of smoke came behind him."

Mr Smith was treated for smoke inhalation. He thanked Ryan for saving his life.