WHEN Richard McGhee was walking to the shop with his eight-year-old son, Jack, nothing seemed out of place...

Then, suddenly, the 37-year-old collapsed, fracturing his skull, breaking his shoulder and collarbone.

Brave Jack's instincts kicked into action and he called for help and started to call 999 to get his dad - lying unconscious - some help.

A passer-by stepped in to help and spoke to the emergency services before Jack called his mum, telling her: "Daddy has fallen and is bleeding."

Richard, from Taunton, went on to spend eight days in hospital and has gone on to be diagnosed with epilepsy - his fall was his first tonic clonic seizure.

Now, the brave eight-year-old has been named a Helping Hand Hero by national charity, Epilepsy Action, for his amazing efforts that day.

“I feel that day was a life changer, not just for me but for my son," said Richard.

"He is only eight years old and he dealt with it all this in such a calm and grown up way.

"It makes me feel so proud and safe to be around him.

"He will always be my hero for his actions on that day. He potentially saved my life.”

Philip Lee, chief executive at Epilepsy Action, said: “For his age, Jack showed truly remarkable courage and care towards his dad.

"We are delighted to be able to recognise him as the true hero he is with this award.

"We know that 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone.

"It is brilliant to hear stories of people making the world better for people with epilepsy.”

The Epilepsy Action Helping Hands Awards celebrate the nation’s epilepsy heroes.

They recognise and honour those who have made a real difference to those with epilepsy in the last 12 months.

Jack is one of seven people or organisations who have received an award.