PROUD pensioner Fred Grimshaw has admitted he's too old to climb on roofs - at the age of 92.

Fred had to be rescued by paramedics and firefighters after he became stranded while repairing the eight foot high outhouse roof at his home in Cobden Street, Darwen.

Next-door neighbour John Meadows was amazed to find Fred lying face down on top of the stone building complaining of cramp, and he raised the alarm.

He said: "At first I thought Fred was having some sort of fit because he seemed to be shaking.

"Luckily the ambulance crew and firemen got him down all right and his only injury was a scratched chin.

"I'm always telling him that I will help him if he wants any work doing but he's lived in the street all of his life and likes to look after himself. It's his 93rd birthday next month and I hope this will be a lesson for him."

Fred was brought down on a spinal board and given a cup of tea and soon recovered.

Today Fred apologised for causing a fuss.

He said: "The shed was raining in so I wanted to get it sorted out. I'd been up there for too long on my knees and got cramp. It's as simple as that.

"I've always looked after my own house, but I don't think I'll be getting back on the shed roof again or I could be in trouble."

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