A police officer has picked up a Queen’s Commendation for bravery medal this week for saving three people from a fire.

PC Mark Fletcher, 40, a response officer based in Rossendale, was given the award by Chief Constable Andy Rhodes during a special ceremony at Lancashire Constabulary Headquarters in Hutton on Monday (November 30).

PC Fletcher was recommended for the award earlier this year, along with Leanne Collopy, 25, one of three people he saved during a fire at a property in Burnley Road, Loveclough, in July 2017.

The recommendation came from the George Cross Committee after both demonstrated unwavering bravery.  Leanne had been subject to a brutal attack by a man at her address and took actions to save her child when the house was deliberately set on fire.

PC Fletcher, the first officer on scene, smashed a ground floor window, climbed inside the blazing property and opened the front door. He helped to rescue the child, Leanne and the man during the incident.

Sadly Leanne died from her injuries and was given the award posthumously.

Her attacker was later handed a life sentence.  PC Fletcher said: “This is a proud day and it is an honour to formally receive the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery medal.

“At the time of the incident I thought nothing more than saving those involved and protecting those in harm’s way.

“Tragically Leanne, who did so much to protect her child that night, was fatally injured. I know how proud her family is and I’m very pleased she had been recognised for her actions.”

The family of Leanne Collopy said: “As a family we are immensely proud and honoured that Leanne’s final actions as a devoted mum have been acknowledged in such a way.”