A PASTOR claims divine intervention led him to save a six-year-old girl's life after she was left in a coma following a car crash.

Sina Akinseye, of Atlantic Close, Swanscombe, says he was prompted by God to drive a different route when he came across the scene in Northend Road, Erith, on April 19.

The 50-year-old leapt to the aid of Michelle Hart, 27, whose daughter Tyla lay unconscious after their car had collided with an articulated lorry just moments before.

Mr Akinseye comforted the family and prayed over Tyla until an ambulance arrived.

Tyla has since made a full recovery and met her "saviour" after Miss Hart appealed for the "angel" who stopped to help to come forward.

Mr Akinseye said: "It was a traumatising experience for the family.

"I was on my way from Bexleyheath to pick my children up from Northfleet’s St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School and instead of going my usual route, I felt God guiding me and calling me to go a different way.

"I wasn’t planning on going that way.

"When I saw the mum in such a state I knew I had to cover the little girl with prayer.

"I was with them for 30 or 40 minutes until the ambulance came."

Tyla was then airlifted to London’s Royal Infirmary before being taken to Great Ormond Street Hospital where she remained in a coma with head injuries for a week.

When she eventually woke up, doctors feared she would be disabled but after rehab, she can now talk and walk.

She is now safely back at home after what doctors say was a speedy recovery.

Mr Akinseye said: "I believe her life is a testimony and it’s confirmation that God can heal.

"It was a terrible accident- I was praying that God would intervene and give her good health.

"I prayed for her every day after the accident.

"I have never been in that position before but I was trying to bring the bible to life.

"The Good Samaritan was a good example."

NEWS Shopper launched an appeal to help Michelle Hart track down the "angel" who had helped her and her daughter following the crash.

On Sunday (JULY 1), she was reunited with Mr Akinseye for the first time after he spotted her story in the paper.

Mr Akinseye said: "We had a cup of tea and chocolate biscuits.

"I was happy to see Tyla was healthier.

"She made me a thank you card and we played for a while.

"I prayed for her and her family before I left."

Miss Hart said: “It was all smiles.

“Tyla gave him a big cuddle.

“It felt quite emotional to see him and thank him for what he’s done.

“If it wasn’t for News Shopper I don’t think we would have been able to find him, so I’ve really grateful.”