Quick-thinking builders thanked for helping to save client's life

And one of the builders was so impressed with the work of the 999 medics he has since applied to become a first responder. Ian Horsman, 61, who runs a photographic business in the town, became ill while Bingham Builders were working on his home, extending his dining room and kitchen.

Mr Horsman's wife Julia, 59, said she asked the builders to help her take her husband to the doctors because she didn't know what was wrong with him.

However builder Ian Bingham, 56, took one look at Mr Horsman and decided he needed an ambulance straight away – a decision that Mrs Horsman believes saved her husband's life.

The incident has had a profound effect on Mr Bingham who has now applied to become a first responder after seeing them in action.

Mr Horsman became ill on Wednesday, February 27, but due to Mr Bingham's quick-thinking 999 crews rushed him to New Cross Hospital, in Wolverhampton, where a surgical team was waiting for him within the 'Magic Hour'.

He was in surgery for one-and-a-half hours having a stent fitted and was allowed home just three days later on Saturday.

Mr Horsman has run Triple Effect, in Whitburn Street, a photography and framing business, for more than two years. It will now be closed until after Easter.

Mrs Horsman, from Bridgnorth, said: "We were very lucky because it was Ian's day off, but he often goes out to get supplies in on that day and could have been in his car.

"If the builders hadn't acted so quickly it would not have been so favourable for Ian's fast recovery.

"They are my local heroes and I want to praise them and the NHS for their actions."

Bingham Builders, run by Mr Bingham, from Muckley Cross, and Nick Doody, 36, from Bridgnorth, has been in business in the town for more than 30 years.

Mr Bingham said: "We were outside talking to Mr Horsman when he suddenly turned away and said he felt funny and went back into the house.

"Mrs Horsman then came out and said Ian did not feel very well and said she was taking him to the doctors and could we help get him into the car.

"I went into the kitchen with my business partner Nick and he was sitting at the table. He looked deathly white and his lips were a purple colour and I could tell it was something serious.

"I said 'don't move him, ring 999 and get the paramedics down here'. We got him into the recovery position, made sure his airways were clear and looked after him until the first responders, paramedics and ambulance arrived."

Mr Bingham said: "I have now applied to be a first responder and have been shortlisted for an interview. It gave me an insight into their work and the role they play. It made me realise how important the timing is, getting to people and helping them."