A man injured while serving in Afghanistan has thanked a Watford company who saved his house after dodgy builders scammed him for thousands of pounds.

Mark Denton, 41, was working for the Ministry of Defence when he inherited his grandfather’s home.

He served with the United Nations in Afghanistan before suffering a back and arm injury - he now has five steel screws holding his shoulder together.

In 2012 Mark started the building work on the house in Wealdstone, which has been in the family since 1910.

He said: "I got quotes in for building work but the builder I chose at the time turned out to be not so honest.

"They took over £6,000 from me in cash, leaving the house in a worse state."

Mark then found Gas Mark 1, in Market Street, and said their "understanding, helpfulness and advice saved the project".

Gas Mark 1 has not taken payment for the work they put in, including installing a full central heating system, boiler, gas works and bathroom.

Mark, who works for the civil service, said: "The house is now in a fit state to rent out thanks to them.

"They saved my grandfather’s house.

"I was so close to losing financially, as I have only limited means.

"I would have lost the property if it hadn’t been for their help and advice.

"You can’t believe the transformation they have helped to deliver."

Mark said the company, which specialises in gas appliances, has gone above and beyond in customer service.

He said: "I have five steel screws in my upper right shoulder and back injuries due to service with United Nations and I had to ask for help on many occasions, even for simple tasks.

"I would like to say a big thank you to this local company Gas Mark 1 for going above and beyond customer service and for their understanding, helpfulness and advice.

"Thank you to all the staff and managers of this company."

Tony Vico, director of Gas Mark 1, added: "Mark is a nice guy who’s been through a tough time.

"He employed a builder who took advantage and left the house in a total mess. It was a bombsite.

"He was in trouble and close to having the house taken off him at one point.

"We were in a position to help."