Hero trio risk lives to save pensioner from deadly gas

PC Nick Bamforth, Sergeant Emma Dillon and PC Anna Littlefair forced their way into the Bailiff Bridge property - despite the smell of gas - after receiving a report that the woman had activated her panic alarm after suffering a fall.

On arrival at the property on Monday, November 17, officers confirmed the lady had fallen and that the gas hob was turned on with a large amount of the substance in the property. Despite the risk posed by the gas the officers decided to force entry to the house to rescue the woman.

PC Bamforth forced the door and Sergeant Dillon and PC Littlefair went inside.

The gas forced the pair back and they had to retreat and re-enter the property a number of times because of the gas concentration, before managing to pull the woman to safety.

The elderly lady was taken to hospital with non life-threatening injuries.

Praising her officers, Divisional Commander for Calderdale Chief Superintendent Angela Williams said: “Our role is to serve and protect and in this case there is little doubt that the officers saved the life of an elderly lady who was in need of help.

“I cannot praise their actions highly enough. They showed tremendous bravery and courage in the line of duty.

“This shows the risks police officers go through on a daily basis to keep our communities safe and feeling safe.”