A schoolboy with a “heart of gold” has been praised after acted quickly to help a pensioner who suffered a nasty head injury.

Westlands pupil Joshua Carter leapt into action to help the 91-year-old man, after he found him lying on the ground with blood pouring from his head.

He has now been recognised for his quick-thinking and kindness and entered into his school’s Book of Commendation.

The 15-year-old, from Wilton Terrace, Sittingbourne, was on his way to a friend’s house when a pensioner nearby suddenly dropped to the floor.

The Year 10 student heard the thud and ran to help, noticing the man had blood coming from his head and ear.

Joshua called for an ambulance and used the man’s jacket to apply pressure to the wound while following instructions from the emergency call handler, calling out to passers by for help.

It happened in London Road at around 5pm last Monday.

His mum Jade, owner of Jades Bespoke Hair And Beauty in West Street, explained how proud she is of her son’s actions.

The 34-year-old said: “Joshua would do anything to help anyone in need, he has a heart of gold. He had to try and help in whatever way he could.”

Joshua is studying engineering and construction, however Jade explained that he doesn’t find education easy.

She added: “His passion is for fishing, being outdoors is what keeps him going.

"He lacks confidence in progressing into work and leaving school, which is daunting for all students this age, but honestly I wish he knew just how amazing he is.

'Joshua would do anything to help anyone in need, he has a heart of gold'

“His genuine, kind and thoughtfulness personality along with his determination to achieve will be the making of him.

“He’s more than able to go far and this latest act of bravery and kindness just shows it. We are very proud indeed.”

South East Coast Ambulance Service also extended its thanks to the teenager for his intervention, while a spokesman for Westlands School added: “We are so impressed with Josh.”

The youngster was only able to get the pensioner’s age, and hopes someone who knows him will get in touch to let him know how he’s recovering.

If you can update Joshua, email sittingbournekm@thekmgroup.co.uk