A firefighter has been recognised for his bravery after helping to save a family from a burning car while he was off duty.
Saltash firefighter Craig Jones will be presented with a Queen’s Commendation for Bravery.
Craig was travelling along when a car lost control and crashed into a safety barrier on June 27, 2021.
He stopped to help and managed to pull three passengers, including a child, from the back of the car. Craig got them out to safety while the flames continued to spread.
Another off-duty firefighter Ed Durante, from Ivybridge Fire Station, saved the driver and the front seat passenger.
The five passengers were moved away from the burning vehicle which was not extinguished until on-call firefighters reached the scene by which time it was destroyed.
Craig will be one of 15 recipients who will be awarded either the Queen’s Gallantry Medal or the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery.
The awards are particularly special as they are from the final Civilian Gallantry List to be approved by Queen Elizabeth II.
The public are invited to nominate individuals who they believe have shown acts of exemplary bravery in saving the lives of others. The awards are approved by the sovereign, after nominations are assessed by the George Cross Committee.
Craig was invited to 10 Downing Street with his wife Chairmain after being named in the awards.
Craig said: “I’m unbelievably honoured to be awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery and placed on the 2023 Gallantry List.
“The award hasn’t been officially given handed out yet but I have had recognition from the Cabinet by way of a wonderful trip to 10 Downing Street, which myself and Charmian loved.
“I’m beyond proud to be on the final gallantry award list that our wonderful former monarch, the Queen, ever signed off on.”
Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Oliver Dowden said of the award winners: “We all hope we’d react with courage in the face of danger. These people have lived through that test and responded in the most admirable way.
“Their selfless actions have saved lives and I want to express profound thanks for their willingness to put themselves in danger to protect others.”
A spokesman for Saltash Fire Station said: “Here at the fire station we couldn’t be prouder of our friend and colleague Craig Jones.”