A MUM has thanked the firefighters who saved her and her six-month-old baby from their burning house.

Fire crews rescued the pair in August after Carmel Bradley called 999 to say she was stuck upstairs in her Runcorn house while a fire took hold downstairs.

Now the team from Runcorn and Widnes red watches have been given awards by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service to mark their bravery.

On route to the house crews were informed that the woman was in the bathroom with smoke entering and she was shouting out of the back window.

Runcorn were first in attendance and rescued the mother and baby while Widnes arrived and tackled the blaze.

Paula Craig, call handler, gave advice to Carmel and also relayed information to the crews which was used by the crews for the rescue.

A spokesman said: “Without the calmness and professionalism shown it is likely there would have been fatalities as no smoke detectors were present and only the popping and banging of the short-circuited electricity supply awoke the occupants.”

All involved were presented with a Success, Talent, Achievement and Recognition (STAR) Award to recognise and honour those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.

This year marked the 10th anniversary of the awards, and more than 100 people attended the ceremony on Thursday at the Village Hotel in Warrington.

Carmel, aged 31, attended the event and said: “I can’t believe a group of strangers made me feel so safe at a time that I felt so vulnerable.

“I can’t explain the feeling of relief when the firefighters arrived, and the lady on the call was incredible too. It’s lovely to be able to meet the crew and it’s really hit home that they saved me and Avery.”

Runcorn firefighter Rich Macmillan added: “I can’t thank the team enough for their expertise and the fantastic job they did in helping Carmel and Avery.

“It was a really special night and important to get the feedback from Carmel at the awards.”

Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive Mark Cashin said: “It gives me immense pride to see the dedication and hard work our staff show each and every day to help keep the public of Cheshire safe.

“Congratulations to the winners, nominees and everyone who has been involved with this year’s STAR awards, they are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the inspirational work which goes on across the Service.

“This year was an extra special event as it is the tenth time we have held the awards, and after hearing the winners’ stories I feel extremely humbled and proud to be the Chief Fire Officer and to represent an organisation which provides an exceptional level of service to the communities we serve.”

Cllr Bob Rudd, Chair of Cheshire Fire Authority, said: “As a locally elected representative I regularly get to see the positive impact staff from all across the organisation have on our communities and I am justifiably proud of the Service and our staff.

“The success of those who have been recognised in the tenth annual Star Awards not only reflects on the individuals and teams but also their families and friends who support them at home.

“I would like to personally congratulate all those staff who have been presented with an award as well as all those who were nominated. They are a true credit to Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.”