London, Dec 23 (IANS) Richard Branson’s daughter Holly ordered one of her dad’s jumbo crews to make an emergency landing to save a seriously-ill passenger’s life.Holly, 26, a doctor, checked Paul Norbury’s pulse and blood pressure as he slipped in and out of consciousness at 35,000 feet and then said: “We must get down asap (as soon as possible)”, reports themirror.co.uk.

The Gatwick to Antigua flight immediately diverted to Ireland’s Shannon airport and Norbury was taken to hospital by ambulance. His condition was stabilised thanks to Holly’s prompt action.

One onlooker said: “Holly was the ultimate professional and remained calm and assured. She told everyone afterwards that she was only doing what any trained doctor would have done. She was very shy and modest afterwards and didn’t want any fuss.”

Former Formula 1 team boss Eddie Jordan was on the flight. He was so impressed with Holly he rang his friend Branson to tell him of her heroics.

He said: “You should be very proud of your daughter. She’s a lifesaver.”

A spokesman for Virgin Atlantic said Branson was extremely proud.