'I did what anyone would do' - brave worker saved lives after running into burning Huddersfield building

Olly Bell (L) was handed the award at Huddersfield Fire Station by the local Watch Commander, Julian King (R)
-Credit: (Image: Yorkshire Water)


A worker has said he did what "any other person would do" after he ran into a burning building to save lives in Huddersfield. Olly Bell, who works as a resolution jetting technician for Yorkshire Water, was on a standby shift and was heading to a job at around 11pm on Friday, July 26.

While driving on Manchester Road, he noticed smoke coming out of the windows of a takeaway and realised there were a number of flats above. He rushed in and knocked on every person's door to warn the residents and he successfully managed to get everyone out and alert the fire service. Everyone made it out before the fire service arrived to fight the fire.

Olly said: "I just did what I thought any other person would do. The last thing I wanted was for anyone to be injured, trapped, or worse if the fire spread. It was just instinct to try and help."

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The fire on Manchester Road
The fire on Manchester Road -Credit:Submission

Now, Olly has been recognised for his heroism, as West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service have given him an award for his bravery. Julian King, Huddersfield watch commander at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "What Olly did that day was truly selfless and went above and beyond. Whereas some people might have carried on with their day Olly not only alerted us, but actually went out of his way to alert the residents as well.

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"At scenarios like this early warning is critical and I have no doubt with his actions Olly has saved people from potential serious harm. He should be very proud of himself and that’s why I contacted my district commander to make sure Olly’s bravery was recognised."

He was given the award at Huddersfield Fire Station on October 4, and said: ""It was a brilliant experience to receive such an award from WYFRS. I was invited to receive the award from the District Commander at Huddersfield fire station last week which was brilliant, if not a little overwhelming for something I never expected to receive."

As for the fire, WYFRS managed to put it out, and it was believed to have been caused by an electrical fault.

Local heroes like Olly could land up to £2,500 to help them boost their communities, thanks to the new fund, which has been set up to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards. Grants of £2,500, £1,000 and £500 are available as part of the Pride of Britain Fund’s £100,000 giveaway for good causes, and you can nominate the people or groups who you think should receive it.

It could be someone who devotes their time to make sure older people have companionship and a warm meal, or an unsung hero who spruces up the high street with flowers. It may also be a sports club, where volunteers give kids a safe space to play, or a youth group putting people on the path to a brighter future.

The £100,000 giveaway is part of celebrations to mark the 25th anniversary of the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards, which are screened on ITV1 later in the autumn. The fund, a charity that aims to spread the Pride of Britain spirit, was set up to help charities and community organisations across the UK.

The Pride of Britain team will create a shortlist, but the final decision will rest with local communities all over the country, so you will be able to vote on who gets the funding in your area. To apply, go to reachforms.co.uk/POB to access the online form.