A woman who collapsed during an exercise class was revived using an emergency defibrillator after a crew of passing firefighters was flagged down.

The 42-year-old became ill during a class at Volunteer Hall in Galashiels, in the Borders, just before 6.30pm on Wednesday.

An accident and emergency nurse, who was at the premises, administered CPR as staff and other patrons contacted the emergency services.

A passing fire engine was flagged down and went in to find the woman not breathing and with no pulse. They used their defibrillator as well as giving her oxygen.

She was taken to Borders General Hospital. She had been "sitting up in bed" on Wednesday night and was believed to be doing well.

A spokeswoman for Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service said: "This was an unusual incident as firefighters were passing the scene when they were flagged down. Firefighters immediately went to assist the woman, as it was apparent she was in a critical condition requiring immediate intervention. They used a defibrillator on the woman, as well as giving her oxygen while they waited for ambulance crews.

"It’s incredibly fortunate that firefighters were passing at just the right moment and there is no doubt that their swift actions had a positive result for the woman who had taken ill so suddenly. We hope she makes a full recovery and wish her all the best."

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