A TEAM of firefighters have been named as public service heroes after tackling extreme temperatures and a possible building collapse to rescue a trapped man in a burning building.

Darlington Fire Station's Red Watch were handed a gong at this year's Best of Darlington awards after being the first crew to reach a large fire on Skinnergate in the town in May last year.

They braved difficult conditions including fire gas ignitions to tackle the blaze, taking turns in shifts when they became physically exhausted, and risked their own lives to rescue a man trapped on the first floor, minutes before it was engulfed in flames.

Others to be honoured at the awards this month included volunteer Stephen Hopper, who was named a citizen of the year and received an award for contribution to the environment, for his unsung efforts to maintain green spaces including Geneva Wood, Brankin Moor, West Park, Rockwell Pastures and many more.

The Young Citizen of the Year Award was awarded to Carmel College student Francis Humble, aged 15, who was nominated by Andy Whittam.

Francis was elected as Youth MP (YMP) for Darlington in March 2018. He had campaigned for a free school breakfast for every pupil at every school and a discount card for leisure facilities in Darlington. He has also helped improve mental health in Darlington, building on the work of previous YMPs.

In his role, Francis has represented Darlington at various conventions and has attended the House of Commons. He has also been involved in community campaigns including Darlington RED Box Project, the Big Spring Clean and many more.

Councillor Heather Scott, Leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: “These awards highlight the fantastic work and commitment shown by extraordinary local people who together help to make Darlington the great place it is to live and work."

For details of all winners visit: www.onedarlington.org.uk/best-of-darlington/best-of-darlington-2019/

Citizen of the Year:

Stephen Hopper

Young Citizen of the Year:

Francis Humble

Academic Excellence:

Thomas Nimmo

Exceptional Student:

Laurie Nicholson

Vocational Excellence:

Paige Stainthorp

Darlington Cares “Good Egg”:

Lorraine Bulloch

Entrepreneurial Spirit:

Tom Schott & Josh Grant

Business Contribution to the Community:

Mangobean

Contribution to the Community:

King’s Church Foodbank

Contribution to the Environment:

Stephen Hopper

Contribution to the Arts:

Darlington Operatic Society

Contribution to Sport:

Peter Walton

Performance in Sport:

India Oates

Exceptional Care:

Humankind Darlington Young Carers Service

Public Service Hero:

Red Watch, Darlington Fire Station

Exceptional Volunteer:

Team JJ at Café JJ

Exceptional Young Volunteer:

Abbie Wishart

Darlington Cares: “Small Company Big Heart”:

Nando’s Darlington

Chairman’s Special Award:

Haughton Historical Society

David Allaway