Petrol man porters nominated for bravery award

11:05am Thursday 15th May 2008

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Two porters who rescued a burning man have been nominated for a national award for bravery.

Angelo Parente, 67, and Vic Cox, 66, were on duty at Tottenham Town Hall in January when a man doused himself with petrol before entering the building and setting himself alight.

The man caused a severe blaze in the building, where members of the public were using the centre's facilities.

Mr Parente ran for a fire extinguisher while Mr Cox called the emergency services and, together, they cleared the crowds while putting out the fire.

The pair have now been shortlisted in the bravery category of the Local Government Association's annual Council Workers of the Year awards.

Mr Cox said: "The flames were really big. It took me back, and I was shocked, but we did what we had to."

"It all happened very quickly and the emergency services soon turned up and took him away.

"But there was pandemonium in the area and we had to get everyone safely out. It was a dangerous situation.

"I didn't realise how it had affected me until weeks after."

"People have said it was very brave but I don't feel that way. I just feel sad that it happened," he added.

The man died in hospital on February 7.

Councillor George Meehan, leader of Haringey Council, said: "Vic and Angelo's calm, professional response ensured the public were evacuated, a serious fire averted and the victim assisted as quickly as possible."

The winners will be announced at the LGA annual conference in Bournemouth on July 3.

m To vote visit local governmentchannel.com or text LGATV 2 Angelo to 80039 before midday on July 3. Normal text charges apply.