(Cover) - EN Showbiz - David Beckham left a family awestruck when he stopped to help them after their car broke down.

Paul Long was driving his eight-year-old son Fabien and six-year-old daughter Josephine to school yesterday, when disaster struck. His grey Nissan Primera broke down while he was at a roundabout, leaving the family stranded.

The accident happened close to David and wife Victorias mansion dubbed Beckingham Palace in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire. Traffic was moving quickly and Paul was worried his vehicle would be hit by another car, so was relieved when he saw a man making his way over to help.

He initially thought the gent was just a helpful youth due to his attire, and was astounded to see it was soccer ace David.

It was hair-raising having children in the back. We had been there for ten minutes. I couldn't do anything - cars were whizzing past, Paul explained to BBC Radio 5 Live.

As [the man] got out I said to the kids, 'It's just a hoodie. Then the hood slipped down to reveal him in a bobble hat. He had negotiated his way through the traffic on foot. I wound the window down and said, 'You're David Beckham!'

My kids were awestruck.

David immediately asked if the family were alright, before helping push their car to the side of the road.

The experience left Paul flabbergasted, and he admits feeling totally overcome. As soon as the vehicle had reached safety he declared his love for David, leaving the sportsman red-faced.

I have always admired him but Im his biggest fan now, although I feel a bit stupid that I told him I loved him, Paul admitted.

David lives in Los Angeles with Victoria and their three sons Brooklyn, 11, Romeo, eight, and five-year-old Cruz. The couple are currently expecting their fourth child.

The 35-year-old plays for team LA Galaxy, but is training with British side Tottenham Hotspur for a few weeks. (C) Cover Media