Alton Towers Smiler crash: Firefighters honoured
Firefighters who rescued casualties from The Smiler ride following a horrific crash at Alton Towers have received an award for saving the lives of those trapped.
A total of 25 firefighters were presented with the Chief Fire Officer's certificate of commendation, following the tragedy, which involved 16 riders on June 2.
The certificate is the highest commendation award by the Chief Fire Officer and crews were recognised for their professionalism, while working for four and a half hours to rescue those trapped.
Two carriages were suspended within a dip at a 45 degree angle, around eight metres from the ground.
Among those injured were Leah Washington, who had her left leg amputated, Joe Pugh, who had both of his legs shattered and Victoria Balch, who had her right leg amputated.
Chief Fire Officer Peter Dartford presented the accolade to firefighters from Stafford, Leek, Sandyford, Cheadle, Ipstones, Longton and Hanley and the officers were from Service Headquarters.
The ceremony was held at Sandyford Community Fire Station on Wednesday, with the victims and their families attending.
Mr Dartford said: "The crews that dealt with the incident at Alton Towers did an absolutely amazing job in incredibly challenging circumstances.
"Their priority was to safely release the casualties as quickly as possible without adding to their injuries.
"I am extremely proud of the professionalism and sensitivity that our firefighters showed throughout the entire rescue operation and in the aftermath the incident.
"I can't think of a more deserving team of people to be awarded a certificate of commendation."
Miss Washington said: "The crews have been amazing, they were really caring at the time and also visited me in hospital afterwards which was lovely of them.
"They have talked me through what happened and what they did which was really helpful.
"I was really happy when I heard that they were going to be honoured for what they did to help us, they really deserve the award."
Another victim in the crash was Daniel Thorpe. He said: "I'm really pleased that all of the firefighters that helped to release us from the ride have received this award.
"They were extremely professional throughout the rescue and even their presence was a huge comfort during a traumatic time.
"They have been really helpful following the incident, filling in the gaps about things that we don't remember.
"Having a clearer picture of the events has made it a lot easier to cope with. I can't thank them enough for everything they have done."
