Quick-thinking schoolgirl saves gran after stroke

Harper recalled life-saving advice she learned in Year Two

A schoolgirl who saved her grandmother during a medical emergency by remembering what she was taught in school has been given a "hero's welcome" by her teachers and fellow pupils.

Nine-year-old Harper's quick-thinking saw her call a neighbour for help and take a video of her grandmother Susan as she began to suffer a stroke at her home in Salford, Greater Manchester.

Mum Rachael said she was "astounded" by her daughter's response, adding the timestamp from the video allowed medics to treat Susan quickly and avoid having to operate.

Harper was awarded a certificate for bravery from James Brindley Community Primary School for what teacher Laura Sharrock said was her “cool, calm and collected".

Harper's grandmother Susan has since made a full recovery

Harper told BBC Radio Manchester she noticed her Susan was "trying to say my name, but weirdly".

"So, as I learnt in Year Two, I went to get my nana's neighbour so she could help us," she said.

“If someone is slurring or not doing something properly, you’re supposed to get help."

She also remembered to take a video during the medical emergency "so doctors were able to give her the right medicine", Harper said.

An ambulance was called and Susan, who has since made a full recovery, was taken to hospital, with surgeons using the time code on the footage to help guide their treatment.

Her mum Rachael, who had briefly left to go to the shops, said she was "amazed" by her daughter's intervention and ability to remember tips from lessons years ago.

Harper had also put her one-year-old brother in a pram and out of the house while the medics arrived, she said.

"The neighbour said Harper was the calmest out of all the adults there."

Harper's life-saving actions were prompted by tips she picked up in school

Ms Sharrock, Harper's Year Two teacher, said the children had been taught how to respond in an emergency and to help people.

She said she was thrilled and "got emotional" as she realised Harper had put these lessons into practice years later.

The whole school was "so proud of her", she added.

Harper admitted she was “surprised” to remember the lesson, adding it feels “very good".

The praise and bravery award given by her school had "been amazing" too, she added.