Burdens man saves mother & baby from fire

A team supervisor from the Colchester branch of Burdens helped to save the lives of a mother and her young baby.

Peter Craven, has been hailed a hero by Essex Police after he and five other members of the public entered a burning building in Clacton last May, after they heard screams coming from inside.

Working together the group managed to get the woman and her child to safety and they have been awarded the Chief Constable’s Commendation in recognition of their bravery.

The emergency services confirmed that the mother and child would have perished if not for the quick thinking of Craven and the other rescuers. Sadly, the woman’s partner died at the scene as he was trapped inside the building and overcome by smoke when tackling the blaze.

Craven, who has kept in touch with the woman he helped rescue and gave a bike to her other son, who lost his in the fire, said: “It all happened so fast.

“I saw smoke coming from the house and a lady shouting for help from the top window so, together with a few others, we grabbed a ladder and rescued the baby boy followed by his mother. I’m just glad that we were able to save their lives, but I was only doing what anyone would do in the circumstances.”

Branch manager Mick Tucker said: “Peter is very modest about what he did and doesn’t see himself as a hero, but we certainly do and the award from Essex Police endorses that view. I’m really proud of what he did that day and am extremely lucky to have him as part of my team.”

Steve Ashmore, managing director, Wolseley UK, visited the branch to commend Craven and deliver some ‘Thanks for Making a Difference’ vouchers said: “I am extremely proud that we have people like Peter working for Wolseley UK.

“In situations like these, people act on instinct and their true character shines through. Peter is a heroic and selfless person and his actions made a significant difference that day to the local community.”