A MAN who helped rescue people from flat fire in Droitwich Spa was among those highlighted at a fire service awards ceremony.

Ben Robertson, who lives in the town, was presented with a letter of congratulations for his part in rescuing the occupants from a blaze at a home in March.

He was highlighted along with firefighters and staff from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) during an event held on Friday, September 28 at the Guild Hall in Worcester.

A long service and good conduct medal for 20 years’ service was awarded to watch commander Shaun D’Oliveira from the training centre in Droitwich.

During the evening, Councillor Derek Prodger MBE, chairman of the fire authority, also presented an award for 30 years’ service to firefighter Steven Molloy from USAR (Urban Search & Rescue), which is also based in the town.

Firefighter Mark Gillett, based at Worcester, was commended for the part he played in providing trauma care to a man who had collapsed in Fernhill Heath in July 2011.

Chief fire officer Mark Yates said: “We hold a formal awards evening in both Worcestershire and Herefordshire each year and it gives me great pleasure to celebrate the efforts and achievements of our staff in this way. I am proud to lead a service with such dedicated fire crews and support staff and I’d like to pass on my congratulations to all those who received awards and long service medals. I would also like to thank their families, whose support and understanding makes such a difference, but so often goes unnoticed.”