A HEROINE who helped to drag a man from his car as it burst into flames is to receive a special commendation for her life-saving efforts.

Stella Baylis, aged 38, of Morton Green, Welland, pulled Mini driver Chris Harris to safety following his collision with a white Vauxhall Combo van on Tuesday, April 17.

Miss Baylis and David Taylor, of Goldsmith Road, Worcester, will be given a Chief Fire Officer's Commendation at a ceremony on Saturday, July 7.

Miss Baylis, a riding instructor with first aid knowledge, said she was spurred on by the knowledge that her sister had witnessed a similar incident 20 years earlier. Then a lady had died in a burning vehicle because no-one could free her.

She said: "That image has always haunted me."

Miss Baylis only reluctantly agreed to accept the fire brigade's accolade. She said: "I don't feel like a hero. Everyone is so proud of me but to me it was just something that had to be done. It took me a while to accept the award as the driver is still quite ill."

Mr Harris, of St John's, Worcester, sustained two broken legs and arms and a broken wrist. He said: "I am grateful to everyone who helped."

Alec Mackie, spokesman for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Stella and David certainly stopped him suffering even more serious injuries than he already had and probably saved his life."

The presentations will be made on behalf of the Queen by John Yorke, the High Sheriff of Herefordshire and Worcestershire, at the annual Fire Service Awards ceremony in Worcester.

Fourteen service personnel who have collectively given nearly 300 years service to the community are to be presented with long service and good conduct medals.