Top award for actions in gas explosion scare

PC Leanne Dawes and Mark Lee, who were on patrol with Coun Glynn Gilfoyle, immediately raced to the scene on Meadow Road on 18th August.

The officers dealt with the man who was threatening to take his life, while Coun Gilfoyle evacuated neighbouring properties.

Top police chiefs have now commended the quick-thinking trio for their actions at a special commendation ceremony, held last month.

Chf Supt Ak Khan said: “The officers’ and councillor’s actions undoubtedly prevented a potential major incident which could have caused serious injury. Their tenacity and bravery are to be commended.”

Coun Glynn Gilfoyle, who was accomanying the officers in his role as vice-chair of the Police Authority, praised them for putting their own lives at risk on a daily basis to protect others.

“I witness first hand how the offices had to restrain this individual who was trying to take his own life,” he said.

“The man was in a very agitated state and PC Dawes had to remove potential weapons from his clothing, including a lighter.”

He added: “I immediately got a gas key from a neighbour to turn off the supply. Had this been any later, there could easily have been a massive explosion like the one in Oldham where a toddler died.”