Binmen John Biffen and Chris Cheese with Diane Lesley.

Two Shropshire binmen have been hailed “local heroes” after they came to the rescue of a pensioner who had fallen in her home.

John Biffen and Chris Cheese were collecting bins in Noble Street, Wem, when they noticed the front door of Diane Lesley’s home was slightly open and she was lying on the floor.

Mr Biffen said: “She was as white as a sheet.”

He called Mr Cheese, who rang for an ambulance, and the pair stayed with the 70-year-old until medics arrived.

Ms Lesley, who had tripped over on her way to the front door, said: “These men really are local heroes.

“I don’t know what I would have done if they hadn’t taken such prompt action.

“Although I didn’t realise it at the time, I had injured my shoulder quite badly.”

Mr Biffen said: “There isn’t time to think in a situation like that, you just follow your instincts.  I am so pleased Ms Lesley is okay.”

Mr Cheese said: “If my help was needed, I would do it again.”

The pair, who work for Veolia, have been praised by their company.

Donald Macphail, managing director of Veolia in Shropshire, said: “I would like to thank both John and Chris.

“Their prompt action is to be commended. We are really proud of their heroic actions”.

Veolia collects refuse and recycling on behalf of Shropshire Council.