A tree surgeon who risked his own life to save a woman from a burning building has been celebrated with an award.

Bollington resident Ben Moorhouse was presented with a Chief Fire Officer's Commendation at a special ceremony at Macclesfield Fire Station on Friday, July 13.

This is the highest honour Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service can present to a member of the public and is reserved for individuals whose actions have made an exceptional contribution to protecting or saving life.

Chief Fire Officer Alex Waller said: "Ben, you are a credit to your family and to our community.

"You epitomise all that is good about humanity, putting yourself at risk to ensure the safety of others.

"You saw that the life of another person was at risk and, without a second thought, you demonstrated immense courage and bravery."

READ MORE: Calls for tree surgeon who saved elderly woman from burning building to receive MBE

Ben Moorhouse was presented with a Chief Fire Officer's Commendation at a special ceremony at Macclesfield Fire Station (Credit: CFRS)

Ben was working as a tree surgeon on Rugby Drive in Macclesfield on March 5 when he and his colleague, Nathan Reed, heard a smoke alarm sounding from a nearby property, presuming someone may have burnt their cooking.

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When a second alarm sounded, they realised the situation could be more serious. Nathan called 999 while Ben climbed down from the tree to investigate. Discovering there was a fire and believing someone was inside, he immediately made the decision to enter the property and help.

Using a hammer to smash a window and gain access, Ben entered the smoke-filled property and discovered a fire involving a tumble dryer. After hearing the occupant call out from upstairs, he was forced back outside by the thick smoke to catch his breath.

Determined to help, Ben re-entered the house and made his way upstairs. Despite being unable to see clearly through the smoke, he found the elderly woman in a bedroom and carried her downstairs to safety. Firefighters arrived as he reached the bottom of the stairs and assisted in bringing her safely from the property.

Both Ben and the occupant required hospital treatment for smoke inhalation but made a full recovery.

During the recent presentation ceremony, Ben was reunited with the firefighters who were on duty on the day of the incident and provided him with first aid following his rescue efforts.