Lifesaving police nominated for bravery
Two police officers have been nominated for a prestigious bravery award after saving a family in Wisbech.
In the early hours of 5 June 2007, roads policing officers PCs Stuart Adam, of Whittlesey, and Leigh Fenton, of Peterborough, spotted a fire at The Royal Standard pub.
Aware that a family was living in the apartment above and with the only exit blocked by flames, the two officers began tackling the fire, which had engulfed the roof.
PC Adam, pictured left, banged loudly on doors and shouted to raise the sleeping family. He managed to wake a man and young girl who escaped.
In thick billowing smoke, PC Fenton, pictured right, attempted to put the fire out with the extinguisher from his patrol car.
Knowing two more people were inside, he entered the building and located them by listening for their voices. He took a boy in his arms and used his jacket for the woman to hold onto and brought them to safety while PC Adam continued to fight the fire until the fire service arrived.
Both officers suffered the effects of severe smoke inhalation.
David Smith, Chairman of Cambridgeshire Police Federation said that it's thanks to the courage and professionalism displayed by each officer, that the family of four survived.
He continued: "The bravery shown by constables Fenton and Adam is typical of police officers across the county. They come on duty each day not knowing what they may face. The officers are fully deserving of their award and, as a result of their actions, four people are alive today who may otherwise have perished."
Chief Constable Julie Spence said: "I'm extremely proud that two very brave Cambridgeshire officers have been nominated for this award. They put their lives on the line to protect others. In doing so they probably saved an entire family. Their courage and professionalism exemplify the best traditions of British policing."
The Police Bravery Awards are hosted in partnership with The Sun newspaper and honour police officers across England and Wales for their actions to tackle criminals and keep the public safe. This year marks the 13th anniversary of the awards.
The ceremony will take place on 10 July in London.