FOUR people who helped save a burning homeless man have been recognised by the fire and rescue service.

The man attempted to take his own life by setting himself alight in a sleeping bag.

Four passers-by, a couple and two strangers, who were passing by stopped to help the man, removed the sleeping bag, and called the emergency services.

Darren Wright, Heather Ross, Thomas Slater and Emma Rowden did not know the victim, but their actions saved his life.

Chief Officer Dave Curry said: “All four responded instinctively to a vulnerable person, placing themselves at some considerable risk. Their selfless coordinated actions saved the man’s life.”

The four were awarded the Chief Officer’s Letter of Appreciation, and received certificates to thank them for their bravery.

After the rescue, Thomas and Emma and Heather and Darren went for a walk to come to terms with what had happened, said a Trinity spokesman.

The victim was a frequent user of Trinity Winchester, the day centre for homeless and vulnerable people in Winchester.

Sue McKenna, operations director, said “We were incredibly shocked when we heard what he had tried to do, and just so grateful that people stopped what they were doing to come to his aid.

"Without the incredible actions by these four people, he could be another name on our memorial bench. It was an honour to attend the awards ceremony and celebrate their success. Thank you to Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service for recognising the bravery of these people.”

The man who attempted to take his own life, has not been named, and is now in more settled accommodation, and looking forward to a much brighter future.

The eleventh annual celebrating success awards took place on the first December 2016, and were hosted by Wave 105 DJ Steve Power.