Accrington Stanley’s physio came to the rescue of a rugby club groundsman as he suffered a heart attack.

Phil Isherwood, who has been at Blackburn Rugby Union Football Club for over 10 years, was taken ill with chest pains as he carried out his duties on Thursday afternoon.

When symptoms failed to subside, Mr Isherwood, 52, sought advice from Accrington Stanley physio Joe Hinnigan, who was working in an office next door, as the football club shares BRUFC grounds in Ramsgreave Drive.

Rugby club chairman Ray Pemberton said: “Phil had the good sense to seek the advice of the physio next door.

“It was obvious to Joe that this wasn’t looking minor, and could be related to his heart. He immediately called for an ambulance, which was fantastic and arrived in four minutes.

“The paramedics then made a swift decision that Phil was having a heart attack and he was taken off to the Royal Blackburn Hospital.

“He had an operation later that day, and is now at home, doing well.”

Mr Isherwood has been involved with BRUFC since the age of 17, when he played for the youth team.

In recent years he has dedicated many hours of his week to office administration and working on the grounds.

Mr Pemberton said: “It’s a big relief to the club that Phil is now recovering and we hope he continues to do so.

“His is a hard role to fill and we’re looking forward to having him back at the club, but we know it’s a slow process and it will only be when he’s ready.”

Club president Dave Morris said: “Phil’s role is pivitol to the club and as a club we thank the Accrington Stanley physio for his quick actions.”