Two Nottinghamshire police officers who saved a man’s life when he tried to set himself on fire have been honoured with bravery awards.
Police Constables Richard Shaw and Mark Elliott were awarded the Chief Constable’s commendation at the annual Nottinghamshire Police awards, held at the Albert Hall last night.
They helped the 23-year-old in Castle Gate in the city on June 14 after a report he had doused himself in petrol.
When the officers arrived PC Shaw tackled him to the ground but the man still managed to set himself alight, with the flames briefly engulfing both him and PC Shaw.
PC Elliott tried to put out the flames and once his colleague managed to free himself, both officers extinguished the fire.
PC Shaw said: “I am very privileged to receive this award. It was quite a serious situation, but you have to deal with whatever is put in front of you. At the time it was a little bit shocking, but I do hope the man is getting the attention that he needs.”
The man suffered severe burns to his arms and the lower half of his body but was saved from sustaining life threatening injuries.
PC Elliott added: “I am very proud to have got this award. It all happened very quickly but a lot of people helped us do what we needed to do.
“I will retire next year and this is a nice way to round off my thirty years on the streets of Nottinghamshire.”
Other nominees included members of the public Brett Woodward and Ericca Sparkes.
Brett helped an officer restrain a man who attacked another officer and pushed him into the road while being put under arrest.
Erica, who was walking home on her way back from work, ran into the road to prevent the rush hour traffic from hitting the group during the struggle.
Video: Erica Sparkes of Arnold, speaks about her award
Brett said: “I was truly not expecting to receive this award. At the time I was thinking of my friend who died in a similar attack. I had no second thought about going to help him and the officer.”
They have faced violence, tragedy and danger
Dozens of other officers and members of the public were given accolades during the event.
Chief Constable Chris Eyre said: “Every day our police officers, staff, volunteers and local members of the public show dedication and courage, making our streets safer and changing lives for the better.
“They have faced violence, tragedy and danger, and they have gone above and beyond expectations to keep people safe.”
