A HAMPSHIRE policeman is in line for a bravery award for his actions during a devastating terror attack.

Sgt Colin Towler, pictured, who works at the force support headquarters in Netley, is to meet Prime Minister Tony Blair in Downing Street next week at a glittering event celebrating the bravest police officers in England.

The 43-year-old officer rescued 17 people from a hotel following a car bomb blast at the Egyptian resort town of Sharm el Shiek in July 2005.

Sgt Towler who was on holiday with his partner Lin helped rescue people as a series of explosions rocked the resort, killing more than 80 people and wounding another 100. The largest and most devastating bomb was detonated by a suicide bomber outside the hotel where the couple were staying.

During the hour before emergency services arrived, the couple pulled people from the wreckage of the shattered hotel.

Sgt Towler said: "I did what came naturally to me. When people shout for help, you help."

Lin was one of eight women honoured as the Best Magazine bravest woman of the year at an awards ceremony hosted by TV presenter Lorraine Kelly.

Lin joined Hampshire Constabulary as a member of police staff in May this year.