AN Amesbury man who rescued a woman from her car seconds before it was engulfed in flames has been recognised with an award.

Luke Ridley was presented with the Chief Fire Officer’s Commendation at Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service's annual awards in the Guildhall last Thursday (May 16) in recognition of his quick-thinking and bravery.

The 30-year-old tree surgeon was on his way to work in his van on the A303 near Solstice Park on the morning of Friday, November 23 when he saw a Nissan Micra leave the road and end up in bushes by the side of the road.

He immediately pulled the van over and went to help. He was able to cut the female driver free from the car, which was completely destroyed in the blaze.

READ: Heroic van driver describes how he rescued woman from car seconds before it burst into flames>>>

https://www.salisburyjournal.co.uk/news/17254609.heroic-van-driver-describes-how-he-rescued-a-woman-from-her-car-seconds-before-it-burst-into-flames/

And other than smoke inhalation, the woman, who was not injured and was taken home by police officers after being seen by paramedics.

During the ceremony, long service and good conduct medals were presented on behalf of HM The Queen by the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell and Vice Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, William Wyldbore-Smith.

Other distinguished guests included the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, David Scott; the High Sheriff of Dorset, Philip Warr; Peter Holland, Chief Inspector Crown Premises Fire Safety at the Home Office; Mayor of Salisbury, Mike Osment; members of Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority; representatives of partner agencies such as local councils and the police; and families and friends of those receiving medals and awards.

Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell said: “Our annual awards ceremony is our chance to take stock, recognise the extraordinary work being done in all parts of our organisation, and to feel real pride in how we help individuals, businesses, partner agencies and the wider communities across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Dorset, Swindon and Wiltshire to live safer and healthier lives. It was an excellent evening, and my thanks go to everyone who attended for their support.”

There were also commendations for the fire service personnel who were part of the initial response to the nerve agent attack in Salisbury last March. Group manager Tim Gray, crew manager Martin Waker, and firefighters Neil Endicott, Lisa Morrell and Josh Wyer attended the Maltings shortly after the two original casualties were taken ill.