A HERO who rescued an elderly lady from her blazing house is to be rewarded for his bravery.

David Dillon, 21, of Hector Road, Darwen, was put forward for the award by his proud mother, Susan Dillon, also of Hector Road.

David is being presented with a Lancashire Diamonds award organised by Preston-based Red Rose Magic 999 Radio in September at an awards ceremony in Botany Bay, Chorley.

David, a martial arts instructor, saved 82-year-old Sadie King when he burst into her burning house in Anchor Avenue, Darwen, in April using his karate skills to kick down the front door.

Mrs King had collapsed on the floor and was said by firecrew at the time to have been just minutes from her death.

They said it was David's quick thinking and fast actions that saved Mrs King's life.

Susan said: "I decided to nominate David for this award because his actions on the day are typical of him. He would do anything for anybody in trouble as he has proved with this incident and one in the past.

"Last year somebody had collapsed on the escalators in Blackburn town centre and without a thought he picked them up and got the person to safety.

"His heart is always in the right place and is the most deserving person in my eyes for this award."