A PENSIONER found by police dehydrated and suffering from hypothermia in his own home is lucky to be alive, according to London ambulance staff.

The 89-year-old, from Leopold Road, East Finchley, was discovered by a police community support officer carrying out a welfare check around the community.

Ambulance crews took the man to hospital and said his body temperature was so low be may well have died if he had not been found.

He suffered no permanent harm and is expected to make a full recovery.

Police said the episode was testament to the key role officers play not only in crime prevention but assisting vulnerable people in the community.

PCSO Jan Lovell said: "When I visited the resident, he was feeling very poorly and I dread to think what may have happened if someone had not checked up on him at that time.

“If people are elderly, vulnerable or lacking in a support network, then our officers can often help them be a bit safer and hopefully a bit happier.”

The visit to the man's house was part of police project shield, which works with neighbours to check on older and vulnerable people living in the area.

Officers regularly meet with those people, carry out welfare checks, or just sit with them to address questions or concerns they may have.

The team Sergeant Andy Matthews said: "People need to be careful during this cold snap as hypothermia is a real danger.

“People are concerned about the rising cost of heating, but little things can save your life, such as properly heating your most commonly used room or a bedroom, wrapping up warm in several layers, and having regular hot drinks.

“If you do know someone who is vulnerable then please spare a thought for them and check by every so often to make sure they are ok, or otherwise perhaps refer them to our Shield project.”