A PENSIONER has thanked a caring teenager who looked after a man with dementia while he had lifesaving hospital treatment.

Full-time carer Anthony Gouldsbrough, 66, had a week-long stint in hospital in April which meant he could not care for dementia sufferer Michael Crawford.

Anthony had to attend Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties, a blockage on his stomach and problems with his gall bladder and liver.

It meant there was no one to look after Michael but inspirational 19-year-old Jordan Bentley offered to help look after him

He washed 68-year-old Michael, fed him, took him to Blackburn Rovers games and gave him medication, as well as sleeping at the house for four nights.

Anthony now wants to thank Jordan, who with his friend Joe Lightbown has helped him care for Michael for five years.

Jordan and Joe have both won the Good Neighbours Awards, which sees Blackburn with Darwen Council team up with the Lancashire Telegraph, in the past after Anthony nominated them.

Anthony, who lives in Top O’ Th’ Croft, Ewood, Blackburn, with Michael who he has looked after for six years, said: “I was in Blackburn hospital for a week and they saved my life after I become ill.

“I needed someone to look after Michael and Jordan offered to.

“He slept at the house with him for four nights, took him out and gave him his medication and fed him and washed him.

“I’d also like to thank Christine Carver, Joe’s mum and another neighbour Karen Maxwell for her help in looking after him also.”

Anthony, a Blackburn Rovers fan of 55 years, added: “You know who your friends are when you’re ill and they’ve been outstanding.

“I want to thank them all.”

Jordan, who is training to be a football coach at Blackburn Rovers and their indoor centre, said: “I’ve known them both for quite a long time and they’ve helped me out and mature as a person.

“So I just wanted to give something back and was happy to help.”