Officer who pulled driver from burning car honoured
Surrey PoliceA police officer who pulled an unconscious driver from a burning car moments before it exploded is being celebrated for his bravery and decisive actions.
On 27 June 2025, while on duty in an unmarked car, Surrey PC Jay Wakefield saw a crash involving a car and a lorry on the A281 in Shermanbury in West Sussex. He ran to the car, which caught fire, and pulled the driver to safety.
Wakefield has been nominated for the Police Federation's National Police Bravery award, which will be presented on 9 July.
Surrey Police Chief Constable Tim De Meyer said: "Had it not been for the courage of PC Wakefield, a life would have been lost. His bravery, skill and composure exemplified the best in policing."
Surrey Police Federation chair Darren Pemble said Wakefield had also been awarded a Chief Constable's Commendation, a Royal Humane Society award, and a bronze medal from The Society for the Protection of Life from Fire.
"I know Jay from having worked with him on [the] RPU [roads policing unit] and I am so proud of his actions and feel it is only fitting he is our Surrey bravery nominee for this year," Pemble said.
After the driver was handed over into the car of a nurse, Wakefield took control of the scene and located the lorry driver, who was wandering in shock, and ensured he received medical support.
Wakefield then coordinated road closures and directed responding units as emergency services arrived, including the air ambulance.
