THREE police constables who rescued an unconscious 50-year-old man from his burning home have been chosen as finalists in a national bravery awards scheme.
PCs Brian Simpson, Trevor Kilbey and Graeme Bird battled scorching heat and choking smoke to save Mich-ael Thompson, in Heworth Dene Gardens, Heworth, Gates-head, Tyneside, in October last year.
The officers, who were on night shift, arrived to find the living room on fire and someone trapped inside.
PCs Bird and Kilbey found Mr Thompson, but at first were unable to rescue him because of deadly fumes.
Undeterred, they got wet towels to cover their noses and mouths and went back inside.
PC Simpson smashed a window to join the others and helped to pull the man free.
All three needed medical attention, and Mr Thompson suffered a broken leg.
The officers will go to the finals of The Sun/Police Federation Bravery Awards.
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