A WOMAN whose husband fell seriously ill had her prayers answered when a Neighbour from Heaven came to their aid while they were abroad.

Joan and Edward Gallagher were stuck 3,000 miles away, in Canada, in January when Mr Gallagher was taken ill. But their friend and neighbour, Pat Carney, of Hawkeshead Place, Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, took over their affairs at home.

Mrs Gallagher, 71, of Callerton Rise, said: "Edward had a type of anaemia and was so very ill. I thought he was going to die.

"Meanwhile, the rent was due, the car MoT was due. They had to get done, but I couldn't worry about these things.

"But Pat took it all over and did everything so that I could concentrate on Edward."

The couple had gone to visit their daughter in December but, three weeks later as they were due to return home, Mr Gallagher coll- apsed.

On January 13, when the couple managed to return, a friendly face greeted them as they touched down at Teesside Airport. Miss Carney drove them to a warm home with cups of tea and food at the ready.

Mrs Gallagher said: "Pat is one of the family and is a definite Neighbour from Heaven."

The two women trained together as nurses 25 years ago and have been close ever since.

Miss Carney, 59, said: "That's what friends are for."

She will be presented with a Neighbour from Heaven certificate and is now in with a chance of winning the grand prize - a £1,500 holiday, courtesy of The Cruise Store.

If she wins, she will also receive £250 worth of holiday vouchers.

To nominate someone for the award, known as an Obsa (Outstanding Behaviour Special Award), which is the opposite of an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (Asbo), simply send your entry to: Northern Echo Neighbours from Heaven, Priestgate, Darlington, DL1 1NF.

The closing date is June 1 and nominees could have their story featured in the paper.