A QUICK-THINKING refuse collector alerted a disabled Droitwich Spa resident to a potentially lethal gas leak outside her home.

Chris Frost smelled the gas when he was collecting rubbish from Irene Hurst's home, in Crofters Green.

The 56-year-old was in bed when the Wychavon District Council worker knocked on her door.

Mrs Hurst said: "When we answered the door, the refuse collector told us he could smell gas.

"We called the gas company immediately and staff explained how to turn off the supply and sent someone round within the hour.

"A pipe and valve had to be replaced. If it wasn't for Mr Frost we would never have known about the leak and we are very grateful to him."

Wychavon's environment committee chairman, Cllr Don Lawley (Con, Droit.South), said: "All of our refuse collectors have a reputation for helping the public whenever they can.

"It's the kind of attitude that makes a big difference to people's lives."