A SIX-YEAR-OLD boy was praised by police yesterday for helping to save his dad's life.

Matthew Johnson remained calm and managed to contact the emergency services after his father, David, who has diabetes, became ill.

The youngster was at home with Mr Johnson in Brinkburn Avenue, Darlington, when the incident happened.

Matthew, a pupil at Cockerton Primary School, called police after he was unable to get hold of other family members to tell them his dad was ill.

Acting Inspector Dave Kirton said: "It's brilliant that a six-year-old had the sense to contact the emergency services.

"He may well have saved his father's life.

"An officer attended and found Mr Johnson was ill. The officer gave him a chocolate biscuit and that brought him round."

Mr Johnson said his son had also given him biscuits while he waited for police to arrive after his blood sugar became low.

He said: "I am very proud of him. He has been told if he can't get in touch with anyone to ring the police so he did - that was excellent.

"I went low and was feeling ill. He did really well and really helped me out."