Paul Foulstone was returning a trolley as his mum packed the weekly shop into the car, when the accident happened at Morrisons in Wakefield on Sunday.

Mum Jane, 50, said she watched in horror as her son disappeared under the car as she waved at him to let her know where she was.

But within minutes a group of mystery heroes sprang into action – two women called the ambulance while two men lifted the car off her son. One of them was a qualified first aider and even tended to Paul until paramedics arrived.

Ms Foulstone said: "They were all so fantastic, but it all happened so quickly and I didn't have time to thank them properly before we were whisked off in the ambulance.

"I am so grateful for what they did and don't know what I'd have done without them. It just goes to show there are still some really good people in the world."

Paul was taken to Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield where he underwent surgery to reattach part of his ear. He also suffered cuts, bruises and grazes to his body.

Ms Foulstone, of the Woodman Inn, Hartley Street, said: "The hospital said he had been very lucky. He is still in a bit of shock and gets tired easily and is still quite stiff, but he'll be ok.

The-mum-of-three added: "It was an accident. The lady driving wasn't to blame, Paul just ran out.

"She was so shaken, and I want her and the others to know he is alright."

Ms Foulstone also praised Morrisons staff who found her keys, which she had thrown away in a panic, and made sure her car was secured.