A FIREFIGHTER and a police officer who worked together to rescue a stranded boy were among those being recognised at an awards ceremony today.Karl Rolfe, of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, and sergeant Matthew Rose, of Suffok police, helped guide the victim to safety from Ipswich's Orwell foreshore on June 1.

A FIREFIGHTER and a police officer who worked together to rescue a stranded boy were among those being recognised at an awards ceremony today.

Karl Rolfe, of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, and sergeant Matthew Rose, of Suffok police, helped guide the victim to safety from Ipswich's Orwell foreshore on June 1.

He had found himself stuck in the mud and would have been submerged within minutes had it not been for actions of the two men.

Both went to help the boy and, between them, managed to carry him ashore.

Two more police officers, Pcs Neil Porter and David Burrell, were also being commended for their actions in helping an elderly man from his smoke-logged house in Castle Street, Woodbridge, also on June 1.

Chief fire officer Lee Howell, who was set to hand out the gongs at the Public Protection Awards Ceremony, said: "Hearing the stories behind the awards brings home the variety of work our public protectors do, as well as the dangers and challenges they face every day. They also show the level of real partnership involved in protecting our communities, whether it is our uniformed fire officers, trading standards officers or colleagues in the police."

Other people were being recognised for a range of achievements, including long service, fire safety work and outstanding work in their chosen field.

Mr Howell : “Our 'backroom' staff are the unsung heroes providing support, research and continuity in the battle to make Suffolk a safer county for all of us. I'm also pleased that we are able to thank local firms publicly for their commitment to protecting their local communities by supporting staff who serve as retained fire-fighters. Suffolk relies on its retained fire-fighters, especially in our rural stations, and these local firms are vital to maintaining an effective service."

Various county councillors were due to attend the event, while Suffolk police were due to be represented by acting assistant chief constable Peter Worobec.