999 Alice saves mum's life

Alice Isted, from St Peter and St Paul School, ran to the telephone after hearing her mum Tessa fall to the bathroom floor of their Paton Road home.

And instead of panicking, the little girl rang the emergency number, explained what happened, told the operator where she lived and even opened the front door for the paramedics.

Alice has been hailed a hero by the ambulance crew and especially her mum, who cannot understand how her daughter knew how to call an ambulance but is just thankful she did.

Mrs Isted, 27, who has now fully recovered from the ordeal, said: "I really think I owe my daughter my life.

"I remember being sick but the next thing, Alice was hitting me over the head with a slipper to wake me.

"Then she told me the ambulance people were coming and they walked through the door almost immediately. None of the family can think how she knew what to do because we have never shown her.

"It's amazing. Alice has done what some grown-ups can't do."

The dramatic event occurred last Tuesday afternoon and Alice has been bought toys and other presents as a reward.

But Mrs Isted said: "I don't think she realises how much she is appreciated."

Paula Zachary, the operator who took the eight-minute call, sent a congratulations card to commend Alice (pictured right) while Steve Tilling, communications centre manager of the ambulance service, said she was one of the youngest genuine callers ever. He said: "Alice didn't panic and did everything Paula asked. It is exceptional for a child of that age to be so calm and effective.

"I can't recall anyone younger than her in Sussex."

Alice has just returned from a four-day holiday in Devon with her grandparents as a special treat and Mrs Isted is pleased to have her home.

She added: "I think all children should be taught when and how to dial an emergency number. It really can save lives."