A 999 operator was today receiving a commendation for helping to save the lives of five children in a burning house in Bacup.

Fire control operator Alyson Harwood will receive the formal commendation at a ceremony at Lancashire Fire and rescue Service headquarters tonight.

Alyson, of Preston, was on duty at 9.40am on Wednesday, May 31, when she took a call from 12-year-old Kathleen Perry.

The youngster was extremely distressed and concerned for her safety and that of the other four children trapped by fire in a house in Tunstead Mill Terrace, Stacksteads.

Frightened Kathleen was given help and advice by Alyson until firefighters rescued her and the other children.

By careful questioning, Alyson was able to direct firefighters to the exact location of the children in the house.

It was a vital link which helped to keep the children as calm as possible and to allow Alyson to pass on instructions to keep them safe until the fire crews got to them.

Chief Fire Officer Peter Holland will congratulate Alyson at tonight's ceremony, attended by colleagues and friends.

The citation in his commendation concludes: "In recognition of her initiative, professional skill and judgement, compassion and composure, the Chief Fire Officer is pleased to commend the actions of Fire Control Operator Alyson Harwood."

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