A HAMPSHIRE firefighter has received an award for his bravery in saving an arsonist from his burning home.

James Everett was formally commended by chief fire officer Neil Odin at the Service Headquarters this month, after he pulled Robert McMahon from his burning flat in Mercer Way, Romsey.

The Romsey hero was returning home one morning in December when he heard a neighbour’s alarm sounding and could smell smoke.

Upon investigation, James saw heavy smoke coming from the ground floor flat and banged on the door to alert the man inside.

READ MORE: Romsey firefighter praised for saving arsonist's life

Hampshire Chronicle:

James, who is a firefighter with Southampton St Mary’s green watch and an on-call firefighter and co-responder for Romsey, said: “I phoned 999 and when the man opened the door there was a rush of smoke that came billowing out.

“The smoke was waist height, but as he came nearer to the door I just went in slightly and grabbed him to pull him out.

“After I dragged him out, I sat him down and then banged on the door of the upstairs flat and told them to get out because there was a fire.

“I then went back into the flat to check there was nobody else inside and see where the fire was.”

While crews from Redbridge and St Mary’s arrived to extinguish the fire, James provided immediate emergency care for the occupant, who was suffering from smoke inhalation.

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Hampshire Chronicle: The aftermath of the flat fire

Group manager Dave Clements said: “James’ actions undoubtedly saved this man’s life and prevented what could have been a very serious fire incident from escalating.

“He didn’t pause for a second to think about the risks to himself and his bravery and dedication deserve to be recognised.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank James for what he did and also remind people that if you hear a smoke alarm sounding, please dial 999.

“This underlines the importance of remaining vigilant and having working smoke detectors, and I urge people to test their alarms regularly.”

Last month, McMahon, 54, was found guilty of arson after the court heard the flat owner had been suffering from poor mental health and decided to set his own home on fire as a “cry for help.”