Two doctors who saved the life of footballer Fabrice Muamba have received a special award for their efforts.

Cardiologist Andrew Deaner and Bolton Wanderers’ club doctor Jonathan Tobin, a member of Mill Hill Synagogue, were among the first on the scene when the midfielder collapsed from a cardiac arrest during an FA Cup match between Tottenham Hotspur and the Lancashire side in March.

Mr Muamba was “in effect dead” for 78 minutes as the medics treated him. He has made a full recovery, but announced his retirement from football on Wednesday.

Dr Deaner and Dr Tobin were given their special recognition awards at Thursday night’s inaugural 999 Awards ceremony on BBC1. Mr Muamba has said he owes the men “everything” and praised them for saving his life. He said Dr Deaner was “the reason I have been able to hold my baby son again and continue my life”