BOYS who attempt to recover a lost football often get into scrapes. But 11-year-old Paul Greaves' experience was more traumatic than your average Just William story.

His arm was skewered as he slipped on railings outside a York school. But thanks to his own cool-headedness, and that of his brother Scott and friend Matthew, his ordeal was lessened.

Their response demonstrates the value of First Aid and safety training - and the usefulness of the mobile phone. The rescuers are to be commended for making sure a holiday accident did not have far worse consequences.

Updated: 10:49 Tuesday, April 17, 2001