Off duty PC saves man from smouldering car

PC Mark Jones has been praised by colleagues for his brave actions

“You are never truly off the clock,” according to a Cheshire police officer who has been praised for his rescue of a man from a smouldering car moments before it caught fire.

PC Mark Jones was off duty and driving home from work in the early hours of 28 September when he came across a car that had hit a tree on the A543 near Congleton.

"The actions of PC Jones undoubtedly saved the male’s life and showed great courage and professionalism," said Insp Alex Cairns.

PC Jones pulled the unresponsive driver from the smoking vehicle, which burst into flames not long after the rescue.

He then returned to the vehicle to check there was nobody else inside.

The 49-year-old man was taken to hospital and has gone on to make a full recovery, according to Cheshire Police.

PC Jones, who is based in Congleton, has worked for the force for about nine years.

“My decision to, quite literally, run towards the fire was all a part of the 'do the right thing' mindset that has been instilled within me during my years serving within Cheshire Constabulary alongside my fellow officers,” he said.

He added: “I'm so glad that this story concluded with a positive outcome as the potentiality of what could have happened does not bear thinking about.”