'We saved pal's life with tips off TV': West Hull workers rushed to aid of heart attack victim

A MAN who helped save the life of a colleague admits he learnt what to do from watching television.

The quick-thinking actions of Carl Barrett kept heart attack victim Barry Dales alive before paramedics took over.

Mr Dales, 58, says Mr Barrett saved his life after he collapsed outside Maltby's pet food store in Hessle Road, on December 3.

But the modest manager of Maltby's says the medical professionals who did most of the work.

He was helped by colleagues Paul Maltby, John Burden and Mark Fowler.

He said: "Barry just collapsed. We put him in the recovery position and made sure he was breathing.

"I've not had first aid training but I've learnt things from the TV.

"We just did what we could until the ambulance crew arrived. They were brilliant and it should be them getting all the thanks.

"You just have to deal with the situation as it happens.

"It was scary but you just do what you have to.

"I suppose I did help save his life but you don't think about it at the time."

Mr Barrett is delighted Mr Dales has made a full recovery.

He said: "I got a nice phone call and a card from his wife.

"I was over the moon when I heard he had pulled through.

"He was in intensive care for a while and we weren't sure what would happen."

Mr Dales revealed he had "died" for 20 minutes after the heart attack.

Delivery driver Mr Dales, of Sedbergh Avenue, west Hull, was loading a van when he collapsed.

Mr Dales said: "I was loading up at the back of the van and I just went. The next thing I knew I was in hospital and it was five days later.

"I have been told Carl ran to my aid and gave me CPR until the ambulance arrived.

"It took the paramedics 20 minutes to bring me round.

"The paramedic who helped save me visited me in hospital and told me they were surprised I came round and they were about ready to give up on me."

Mr Dales believes he is only here now because of Carl's quick actions. He said: "There is no doubt in my mind Carl saved my life.

"I don't think the paramedics would have worked on me without Carl carrying out CPR.

"I owe him my life."

Mr Dales says his festive season has been somewhat mixed.

He said: "I was in Castle Hill Hospital for three weeks but I got out on the Saturday before Christmas.

"It has been a very strange Christmas. By rights, I shouldn't be here."

"I am lucky to be here and be able to see in the new year. I'm thankful for that.

"Seeing my son, Mathew, made it worthwhile and I'm glad I was here for him this Christmas."

Mr Dales, who also broke his ankle during his collapse, suffers from asthma and diabetes but has never had a problem with his heart.