Firefighter to be rewarded for his bravery

Nov 19 2009 The Journal

A HERO firefighter who rescued an elderly disabled woman from her burning home has been rewarded for his bravery.

Graham Dodd was at home in Chopwell, Gateshead when he was alerted by neighbours to a house fire in the next street.

The 35-year-old raced to nearby Humber Street, and when he arrived he found the front door of a house was completely ablaze. A group of neighbours were desperately trying to break down the back door and alert the 75-year-old woman who lived there.

Dad-of-three, Graham, who has been a firefighter for almost 20 years got into the house via a back door

With no equipment or protective clothing he fought is way through thick black smoke eventually finding the woman in the kitchen and carrying her to safety.

And the hero’s bosses at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service are now preparing to reward him for his bravery by presenting him with the brigade’s Bravery and Meritorious Conduct Award. Tom Wright, chairman of the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Authority, will be presenting Graham with his Award on Monday.