SLEEPING residents were saved from a burning flat by a man who has now been honoured for his bravery.
The courage, quick-thinking and dedication of 80 people was celebrated by Nottinghamshire Police in the latest set of Chief Constable's Commendations.
Brent Ramsall, 28, pictured, saw thick black smoke billowing from a family's home in Mansfield as he was driving through his home town.
Without hesitation, he went into the building shouting "fire" to raise the alarm and wake the sleeping residents.
Mr Ramsall then battled through dense smoke and flaming door frames after knocking down two doors to rescue people sleeping in the flats above.
Despite inhaling smoke and fumes, Mr Ramsall saved the people in the burning building, who were all unhurt as a result of his courageous and selfless actions.
Mr Ramsall said: "I don't remember much about that night apart from seeing the smoke coming out of the building and thinking that there were people inside. I like to think that what I did is what anyone else would do if they had been in my position.
"It is nice to be recognised and to be a part of an event where people are thanked for what they do."
Other award recipients on the night included long-serving police officers and a teenager who tried to save someone's life while on work experience.
Chief Constable Chris Eyre, who attended the event at Nottingham's Albert Hall, said: "This was a showcase of the extraordinary people that live in our community and an example of how our officers, staff, volunteers, cadets and Specials go above and beyond the call of duty time and time again.
"These nights are a fitting tribute to their dedication, courage and professionalism, shown not only on a daily basis but also in exceptional circumstances.
"They all deserved to be recognised, praised and thanked and it was a real privilege to present them with their commendations and awards."
Police and Crime Commissioner Paddy Tipping added: "I've often heard people extol the virtues of the private sector while being dismissive of the public sector. But the public sector does make a real difference, as we heard so vividly.
"The stories we were celebrating at this event illustrated some great achievements and just how far people will go to help others. I don't think we say thank you enough.
"All those civilians, staff and officers being recognised deserved our thanks and wholehearted appreciation of the contribution they make."
