Two firefighters were declared heroes today after they saved an elderly couple in their eighties from their burning bungalow.

Brave - Andy Stammers and Alex Cox pulled the couple from the blazing bungalow Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

Andy Stammers, 42, and Alex Cox, 31, went into the blazing, smoke-filled home in Elm View Road, Benfleet, at just after 11pm last night and minutes later emerged with the petrified couple in their arms.

The pair were asleep in bed when an electrical fault caused their blanket to catch fire. Luckily a smoke alarm woke the woman.

She called emergency services and stumbled around, confused and scared, searching for her husband.

Around 20 minutes later firefighter Alex found her in the lounge - just seconds after Andy rescued her husband who was cowering behind the bedroom door.

Reluctant hero Andy said: "I did not think twice I just grabbed him and carried him outside as quick as I could.

"These sort of things happen from time to time and we just have to get on with our job."

Modest Alex added: "The woman was panic stricken when I found her and had no idea where her husband was.

"I picked her up and got her out, that was what I was sent in to do."

The couple were taken to Southend hospital where they were treated for smoke inhalation and shock.

Sub-officer Alan Hockett said: "Their speed in finding the couple saved their lives."

Published Tuesday January 20, 2004

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