Melanie Madley, who rescued an elderly resident when a fire broke out at Lawford House Residential Home in Ross-on-Wye was presented with this year's Chief Fire Officer's Certificate of Commendation.

Miss Madley was commended for her actions in the early morning on April 16th, when a fire broke out at Lawford House. Not only did Melanie rescue the occupant of the room that was on fire, she also fought the fire itself with a foam fire extinguisher, briefed firefighters on the situation and assisted them in evacuating residents.

She was presented with her award at Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) Annual Herefordshire Medals and Awards Ceremony at Hereford Town Hall on the evening of Friday, November 22nd; to honour the achievements of Service staff and volunteers, as well as members of the public.

Awards this year were presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire, Lady Darnley; the High Sheriff of Herefordshire, Mr Robert Tabor; Chief Fire Officer Mark Yates; and Chairman of the Fire and Rescue Authority, Cllr Derek W Prodger MBE.

Chief Fire Officer Mark Yates said of the event, "It was a privilege to take part in this year's ceremony and I would like to offer my sincerest congratulations to all those who have received awards this year in Herefordshire and Worcestershire: from our truly dedicated members of staff to some very exceptional members of the public."