TWO courageous Poole men who attempted to save their elderly neighbour from a fatal house fire are being awarded for their bravery.

Robert Baron and Glen Dimascio will both receive a chief fire officer's commendation at Dorset Fire & Rescue Services (DFRS) annual awards ceremony.

Six DFRS staff, including fire control workers and firefighters, will also receive commendations for their actions in relation to the same fire, which they attended at Langside Avenue, Poole, in October last year.

Edwin Wellman, aged 93, died in hospital hours after being pulled out of his burning bungalow by firefighters.

Initially, neighbours Mr Baron and Mr Dimascio both entered the building in an attempt to rescue the frail pensioner, but they were forced back by heavy smoke.

A DFRS spokesman said: "They are commended for their courage and selfless actions in attempting to rescue the occupant."

Meanwhile, DFRS watch manager Sarah Dunford, crew manager Laura Churchill, firefighters Jamie Hockley and Thomas Boulter - all fire control staff - will be presented commendations for their actions during the drama.

Crew manager Chris Mitchell and firefighter James Turnbull, both of Westbourne fire station, also receive commendations for their actions on the same afternoon.

"They are each commended for their prompt decision making and actions in making a rescue and providing the best possible care to the casualty," said the spokesman.

Mr Wellman, who lived alone, was taken to Poole Hospital with severe burns and smoke inhalation, before being flown to Southampton General Hospital for specialist treatment. He was pronounced dead at Southampton just a few hours after the fire.

Also receiving commendations during the Lulworth Castle ceremony will be DFRS group manager Andy Fox, for actions taken at a road traffic collision, July 2104, on the A35 at Bloxworth.

Crew manager David O'Bryan, of Christchurch fire station, also receives a commendation for his actions at a fire in Warren Edge, Southbourne, last July.

During this incident a family was rescued after a blaze trapped them in a block of flats.

The ceremony also includes a number of long service medals and the presentation of other excellence awards.

The High Sherriff of Dorset, Mrs Jennifer Coombs, will make the long service and good conduct presentations.

County fire chief Darran Gunter said: "I am very proud of the service we deliver to Dorset and all those who make up that service.

"In addition to recognising the members of staff who have worked within DFRS for 20 years, I am delighted to be presenting awards in four other categories.

"This allows us to praise the excellent work being done above and beyond the call of duty with regards to work within the community, making a difference to the service, young achievers and professional achievements."