Men who rescued family from submerged car get award

Neil Gill and Steve Elston rescued two children and one adult from the car on 5 March

Two men who "saved the lives" of a family from a submerged car have been recognised for their bravery.

Neil Gill and Steve Elston were honoured for their "extraordinary bravery and decisive actions" after rescuing one adult and two young children in Nuneaton on 5 March, the council said.

The pair, who work for Currys and were driving between jobs, had spotted a vehicle upside down and partially submerged in water after being flagged down by a member of the public.

Mr Gill jumped into the lake and forced the car door open, rescuing a baby first, who he passed to Mr Elston who was on the riverbank.

Mr Gill then rescued a second child from the rear passenger seat, before returning to help pull the adult driver free.

Warwickshire County Council said Mr Elston had also organised a human chain with two other people who had stopped to help get them to safety.

The men have been presented with the Chief Fire Officer's Commendation Award by Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service (WFRS).

Chief fire officer, Ben Brook, praised their "courageous actions" after coming across the car.

"Their quick thinking and decisive actions, helping one adult and two young children to get out of the vehicle, has saved lives," he said.

Mr Gill said the incident was a "very emotional day" he would never forget.

"I don't feel like a hero, I just did what was necessary," he said.

"A scary day, it makes you think about life differently," added Mr Elston.