A POLICEMAN who risked his life to drag a man from a blazing car just moments before it exploded has been nominated for a bravery award.

Matthew Hammill, a police constable with Suffolk Constabulary, made the heroic intervention on the A14 near Bury St Edmunds.

Pc Hammill, who was off-duty at the time, raced to the scene after spotting flames engulf a car on the opposite carriageway.

It was only when the officer reached the vehicle that he realised someone was trapped inside. But he entered the inferno to rescue Stuart MacFarlane from the overturned car, pulling him to safety moments before it exploded.

He has now been put forward for a gong at the Police Bravery Awards, which is taking place in London on Thursday, October 18.

Pc Hammill has already received a Royal Humane Society medal for his actions, which happened on April 22, 2011.

Matt Gould, chairman of Suffolk Police Federation, said: “Pc Matt Hammill was off-duty when he attended this challenging incident and he displayed the highest levels of courage, professionalism and dedication.

“He responded to this incident without thought to his own safety and I cannot praise his actions highly enough.

“He is a credit to Suffolk Constabulary and the people of Suffolk can be proud of him.

“His decisive actions and quick-thinking meant the man survived the horrendous ordeal. Pc Hammill waited at the scene until the arrival of the emergency services.

“The bravery shown by the officer certainly saved the man’s life.”

Mr Gould’s praise comes as the deadline for nominations for the Star of Suffolk Awards approaches on Friday, October 19. To nominate someone visit www.starsofsuffolk.org.uk