A Tenby firefighter has been shortlisted for the 'Firefighter of the Year Award', following his act of extreme bravery when he rescued an elderly gentleman from a house fire whilst off duty.

Lee Simmons from Tenby Fire Station was driving past an elderly neighbour's house at the town's Newell Hill, back in February, and whilst stopping at the traffic lights, noticed smoke coming from the building.

Lee, who is also a community fire safety officer at Pembrokeshire County Command Headquarters, entered the smoke-logged property, found the elderly and partially-disabled occupant, and brought him out safely.

He instructed neighbours to call the fire service, and when two fire appliances from the Tenby Station arrived, they were faced with a severe fire in the living room of the property. His quick-thinking saved the life of the gentleman concerned.

Lee will be attending the Firefighters' Charity Spirit of Fire Awards, which are being held in London on November 4, along with fellow firefighters from the Tenby station, who are being recognised for the commitment they have demonstrated to the 'Firefighters Charity' over the past year.

The annual event is organised by the 'Firefighters Charity' to recognise bravery within the Fire Service community and dedication to the Firefighters Charity.

Pembrokeshire County Commander Steve Bryant said: "I am extremely proud that both Lee Simmons and Tenby Fire Station personnel have been invited to these awards.

"Lee Simmons is an excellent example of the commitment and bravery shown by our personnel, but in Lee's case he did it whilst off duty without the support and assistance of his colleagues.

"Tenby Fire Station have demonstrated a great deal of commitment to the Firefighters Charity with the money raised from the annual Tenby Firemans Carnival and Open Day.

"This has become a big event in the Pembrokeshire holiday calendar and not only benefits this excellent cause, but raises the profile of the Fire and Rescue Service in the community," he added.