A Surrey Police officer who went above and beyond his duties when he saved a man’s life from a burning building has been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards 2023.

An off-duty summer’s evening at home in August 2022 with his family took a dramatic turn when the officer noticed smoke coming from a neighbour’s house.

As he shouted for his partner to call the fire brigade, and without pausing to put his shoes on, he ran to the property where he found the front door locked but was able to hear the groans of an occupant inside.

Forcing the door open the officer was confronted with thick black smoke which he was unable to see through, but that did not stop him entering the property and pulling his neighbour out, undoubtedly saving his life.

He checked there was no one else present and stayed with his neighbour until the fire and ambulance services arrived on scene.

This officer’s fast thinking and quick actions, with no thought for his own safety, demonstrated immense bravery as he dragged his neighbour from a burning building, going above and beyond his duties as a police officer.

Surrey Police Federation Chair Darren Pemble said: “The officer ran towards danger bare foot and rescued his neighbour, undoubtedly saving them from death or serious injury. I commend him for his quick and decisive actions. Police officers are more than crime fighters and this officer is a credit to Surrey Police and policing. He is a worthy nominee for a Police Bravery Award.”

Surrey Chief Constable Tim De Meyer added: “The extraordinary bravery of this officer exemplifies the notion that a police officer is ‘always on duty’. If it wasn’t for his heroism, there would have been the most awful tragedy. I and all in Surrey Police are so proud of him.”