A YOUNG firefighter has been honoured with two bravery awards during the first two years of his career.

Lee Ferguson, 25, of Croft Close, Rawtenstall, will be commended for trying to save a three-year-old boy who died in a house fire and for his role in the aftermath of a gas explosion.

Three-year-old Aaron Reynolds died, trapped in a bedroom of his home in Lime Tree Grove, Constablelee, in August last year.

Lee was off duty at the time but with a friend who lived in the same road.

He said: "We thought it was my pal's house so we raced round and realised it was next door.

"The retained and full-time fire crews were already there. I gave them a lift with pulling the hose off the engine and helped them prepare to tackle the fire.

"Little Aaron was in his bedroom, where the fire had started. It was very sad for everyone involved."

At the inquest a verdict of accidental death was recorded. A leading fire officer said it seemed most likely that Aaron started the blaze which tragically cost him his life.

He said it was probably started by a lighter but the cause remains a mystery because the room was so badly damaged.

Lee's boss, Sub Officer Tom Simpson praised Lee's outstanding service. He said: "I have been in the fire service for 19 years and this is my first commendation so for Lee to get two in the space of a month is unheard of. What makes it even more meritorious is that he is still on probation and still learning so it is a great achievement."

Lee is delighted about being put forward to receive the two commendations. He added: "I can't believe that I am getting two awards. Some people have been working all their life and haven't received any so I feel very lucky."

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service Press Officer, John Taylor said: "I can confirm Lee is to receive a second commendation which is very unusual.

"Commendations are not given out regularly so it is a great achievement".

Lee will be commended tonight for the role he played in the Nelson gas explosion rescues in May and will receive the second award at Rawtenstall Fire Station in November.

He will be among other firefighters from Burnley, Nelson, and Barnoldswick, and paramedics and a doctor from Nelson Health Centre.

They will receive commendations and letters of appreciation from Chief Fire Officer Peter Holland for their exceptional efforts to save the lives of people trapped in the shells of terraced homes, devastated by a gas explosion.