Passer-by who helped save a life urged to come forward (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Passer-by who helped save a life urged to come forward

Scene of the fire at old Sarum last Wednesday. DA4855P3A YOUNG man whose quick actions helped save the life of a man trapped unconscious in his burning caravan at Old Sarum is being urged to contact Salisbury fire chiefs, so they can thank him.

The man, believed to be a Keith Crowther, was cycling along the Portway through Old Sarum about 5.45pm on Wednesday last week, when he spotted flames pouring out of a caravan in Green Lane.

He alerted the fire brigade, who were on the scene within minutes and firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were able to force their way into the caravan and carry the unconscious occupant outside, where he was given oxygen until paramedics arrived. The man was then taken to Salisbury District Hospital, where he was treated for smoke inhalation.

Later, Assistant Divisional Officer Ian Rennie told the Journal: "We would like to contact the young man, so that we can write him an official letter thanking him for his quick actions.

"There is no doubt that he helped save the life of the occupant of the caravan. If we had not got there when we did, it is quite possible the man would have died."

The fire, which is not being treated as suspicious, is thought to have started in a seat made of foam and to have begun spreading to other furnishings.

Mr Rennie said firefighters were able to save most of the caravan and its interior. He said damage was moderate and the caravan would still be useable as a home.

The name of the occupant of the caravan is not being released but it is believed he has recovered from his ordeal.

Mr Rennie said firefighters had discovered the alarm had been raised by a man called Keith Crowther, but he had cycled off before they were able to check his name and obtain his address.