Humberside Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) is once again asking the public to vote for their Local Hero in the Service’s annual Community Awards. The award recognises those members of the public who have gone to great lengths to help others in emergency situations.

Following a nomination period, a panel of judges from the Service has shortlisted two people for the award and are now asking people to vote for their Local Hero.

Nineteen year old Danny Squires of East Hull was walking past a property back in November 2010 when he heard a smoke alarm activating inside. Recognising that there could be someone in danger, Danny broke a the glass in the front door to gain access to the property, put out the fire and carried the young woman who lived in the house downstairs and out of the front door, where he was met by HFRS crews.

The second nominee is 55-year-old David Gaunt from Cleethorpes who rescued someone from a burning car. The driver had lost control of the vehicle, David was driving behind the car and saw the incident unfold as the car span into a lamp post and roll over several times before coming to a stop. When he saw nobody leaving the burning vehicle he sprang into action and found the driver in the car in a dazed state. Mr Gaunt pulled the driver from the vehicle and took him to safety shortly before the car exploded.

Humberside Fire and Rescue Service’s Partnerships Officer Katrina Horth, who organises the awards, said: “The awards are an excellent way to recognise people, both within the Service, our partner organisations and members of the public, who go above and beyond what could be expected to help others. Both Danny and David carried out brave rescues, putting the safety of others first. They both deserve recognition for their actions which is why they were shortlisted.”

Both nominees will now be invited to attend an awards ceremony on Thursday 29 September at the Country Park Inn in Hessle where the winner will be announced along with the winners of 12 other awards in various categories.

Votes can be cast by calling or texting 07851 495960 or emailing [email protected]. Please quote “house” to vote for Danny Squires or “car” to vote for David Gaunt in all correspondence.

Votes can also be cast by sending a letter to FREEPOST NEA3601 Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, HULL, HU4 7BB and quoting “house” or “car”.

Voting closes on Wednesday 31 August.

Both shortlisted nominees are available for interview, please contact the Humberside Fire and Rescue Service Press Office on (01482) 567435 to arrange this.