Pair rescued in fire drama

RETAINED firefighters called for volunteers after they helped save two Ferring residents from a smoke-logged bungalow.

Part-time firemen from East Preston joined Worthing fire brigade to battle the Highdown Way blaze at 1.30am on Monday.

A disabled man and a woman, found in the house, were taken to Worthing Hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation and shock.

A West Sussex fire brigade spokeswoman said: "The fire is believed to have been caused by an unattended candle burning on a TV set.

"It s a timely reminder, especially at Christmas, of the danger of burning candles and the importance of fitting and maintaining a smoke alarm."

East Preston station commander Jon Mays said his brother Jeff and colleague Tim Cooper pulled the smoke-blackened victims from the flames.

All three were retained firefighters and Mr Mays urged people to give the life-saving job a try.

He said: "Jeff and Tim did a super job.

"The ambulance service told us people were at the rear of the premises.

"Leading firefighters Mays and Cooper went in with four others and a few moments later, emerged with a gentleman in a wheelchair. We took him to the ambulance.

"By the time we returned to the house, they brought the lady out and handed her to us.

"The man and woman were black from top to bottom with smoke."

Mr Mays added: "We re always looking for people who want to do this, no matter how much time they can spare."

Anyone interested in being a retained firefighter should contact station commander Jon Mays at East Preston fire station, on Mondays, between 7pm and 9pm, or call fire brigade headquarters on 01243 786211.