QUICK thinking by a group of pupils at St Laurence School, Bradford on Avon, helped save the life of an elderly woman who had a stroke outside the school entrance.

She was walking her dog when she collapsed on Ashley Close on Thursday, January 7, as pupils were leaving the school.

A group of youngsters on the road, which is used as a short cut, leapt into action. Some rushed back to school to get help while others dialled 999 and made the woman comfortable.

Whle the woman was treated the youngsters left without anyone noting their names, but their actions were noticed.

Headteacher Fergus Stewart said: “I am immensely proud of the pupils. They looked after her, phoned the ambulance, made her comfortable and did everything they should have.

“If it wasn’t for them I don’t know what would have happened to her.

“Her family has been in touch to pass on their gratitude and we have been told she is on the road to recovery which is great news. Their work would have improved her chances of recovery.”

The St Laurence pupils’ actions fits in perfectly with the school’s theme for the term, society, teaching the importance of being a good citizen.

“It is great to see it all put into practice,” said Mr Stewart.

“To be honest it didn’t surprise me. It epitomises our students as a whole and we are all very proud of their work.”