Children saved father's life after he caught fire

Two children who acted quickly to save their father's life after a bonfire got out of control and ignited his clothes have received bravery awards.

Harry and Grace, aged eight and six respectively, came to the rescue of their dad Sam on 9 November at their home in Watnall Road in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire.

After the flames spread to his clothes, Grace told him to "stop, drop and roll" while Harry made a call for help to family and friends.

Following his daughter's instructions, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service said Sam, 33, fell to the ground and began rolling, effectively putting out the fire and preventing further injuries.

He was given first aid by firefighters before travelling to King's Mill Hospital, in Sutton-in-Ashfield, for further treatment.

The fire service said Harry and Grace's "quick and brave actions prevented this accident from being much worse".

Grace had recently learned the life-saving advice that she gave to her father during a fire safety session at school, which prevented him from sustaining any further injuries.

He said: "As guilty as I feel for putting them both through such a scary ordeal, I couldn't be more proud of how sensible they were remembering everything taught to them about fire safety.

"Without their actions I could have suffered a far worse injury."

The children were presented with an act of bravery certificate during a safety assembly at their school, Hucknall Flying High Academy, on Monday.

Assistant chief fire officer Damien West said: "We are extremely proud of both Harry and Grace.

"They made a truly scary situation better by staying calm and knowing exactly what to do, which is why it was so important for us as a service to recognise them for their bravery.

"This incident is a powerful reminder of how vital fire education is."

Follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.