Asda Larne driver praised after rescuing pensioner found collapsed at home

Community hero: Asda Larne driver Norman Gibson

A quick-thinking Asda delivery driver from Larne has been praised for his heroic actions after coming to the aid of an elderly customer who had fallen and been lying on the floor of her home for more than two hours.

Norman Gibson, who has worked at Asda Larne for nearly five years, was making a regular delivery when he spotted the woman, who is in her seventies, lying collapsed in the hallway through the front window of her home.

The father-of-two, a former security officer, immediately tried the door and was relieved to find it open. Drawing on his first aid training, Norman rushed to help.

“When I saw the lady through the window, I just wanted to make sure she was okay,” Norman said. “Thankfully my first aid training kicked in and I was able to help. I used to work as security at Larne Harbour, and I knew what to do from years of first aid training, but she didn’t want any fuss made of her. I was just glad to be there at the right time and make sure she was safe until her family arrived.”

After checking the woman’s responsiveness and carrying out stroke assessments using the FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) method, Norman carefully helped her back into bed and called her family. He then stayed by her side to reassure her until a relative arrived to take over her care.

Before leaving, Norman went one step further — unpacking and putting away her groceries so she had one less thing to worry about.

The woman’s granddaughter later contacted the store to express the family’s gratitude. She said:

“My granny is quite old and frail. She had a fall and couldn’t get up or get access to her phone to call for help. Norman found her and helped her. As well as calling for help he waited for a family member to drive to the house, rather than leaving her alone. My granny said he really went above and beyond for her. We hope he gets the recognition he deserves.”

The lady’s daughter, who lives in Edinburgh, also expressed her heartfelt thanks:

“I for one, will be eternally grateful. I live in Edinburgh and try to visit at least once a month to see my mum. I can’t begin to thank the kindness shown to my mother that day.”

As a result of his quick thinking and compassion, Norman has been awarded an Asda Service Superstar award — recognising his outstanding care and commitment to the community.

Reflecting on his job, Norman added:

“I really enjoy working as a delivery driver. You get to know your regulars and meet new faces all the time. Most people are very friendly and love a wee chat. It’s nice to feel like you’re part of the community.”

Norman’s actions have been widely praised as an example of the vital role delivery drivers play — not just in providing a service, but in looking out for the people they meet every day.