Two police officers have been recognised for their bravery in rescuing hundreds of residents from a burning building.

Police Constables James Kember and Andrew Eaves rushed into the building in Green Lanes, Harringay, in February, to evacuate people after they spotted smoke billowing from the roof.

Last week borough commander Chief Superintendant Dave Grant commended the two officers for their courage and professionalism.

PC Kember said: "We saw loads of smoke coming out of the roof and knew we had to do something. There wasn't time to go knocking on doors, so we knocked them down to get people out. Some of the flats had fifteen people in them.

"I got to one flat and knocked down the door to find an elderly lady sitting on a commode. We both had quite a fright but once she finished, I carried her downstairs and out to safety before returning to get the others out."

Chief Inspector Aidan Gibson added: "It is without doubt that the prompt actions of these two officers saved lives and prevented any serious injury coming to the residents of Grand Parade. In total around two hundred people were successfully evacuated."

A total of 44 officers, police staff and members of the public were commended in the Chigwell Sports Club ceremony on Thursday, October 23.

Among those recognised were Sergeant Iain Williams and his team from Tottenham Green Safer Neighbourhood Ward, for making a positive difference to the area and reducing crime.

Elizabeth Thomas, representative for the Tynemouth Area Residents Association in Tottenham, said: "The team attend local resident meetings and listen to residents’ concerns, no matter how small they may appear. They follow up those concerns with dedication, personal contact and sheer hard work, particularly in the West Green area, and report back on the work they have done.

“This has given the residents confidence that they were being listened to and their views respected. The team has made our area a safer more pleasant place to live.”

Ch Supt Grant added: “This is an opportunity to thank people for their hard work and to acknowledge all the good work going on in Haringey.

“We do this job day in and day out and just get on with it, but should be proud of our achievements. It never ceases to amaze me the dedication that people show.”