TWO men from Pontypool have been recognised for their selfless action rescuing a neighbour from a fire at the National Police Public Bravery Awards in London.

David Millett and Dale Mitchell raised the alarm with residents in Raglan Close, in Talywain, to evacuate their homes when a serious fire broke out at a property in December 2017, .

Mr Millett used an axe to break down the front door of the home affected and they both climbed the stairs to the living room door.

Mr Mitchell then used the axe to break down the living room door, which had been barricaded from the inside.

Both men took turns to run outside for fresh air, before going back into the address to help the occupant from the property, and then going back for his dog.

Gwent Police deputy chief constable Pam Kelly said: “As an emergency service, our primary role is to protect and reassure communities, however we are also reliant on members of the public to be vigilant.

“I cannot praise Dale and David highly enough.

“They acted courageously and their only thought in that moment was to assist a neighbour.

“Their actions encapsulate the values we hold as a police service, and I want to thank them personally for their actions which, without question, saved someone’s life.”

Mr Millet was unable to attend the ceremony.