Tree surgeon Ben Moorhouse has been awarded a Chief Fire Officer's Commendation by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service after he ran into a burning house in Macclesfield to rescue an elderly resident. The incident occurred on March 5, 2026, at a property on Rugby Drive.
Brave Rescue Amid Thick Smoke
Moorhouse was working with his colleague Nathan Reed when he heard a smoke alarm sounding from a nearby property. Initially believing someone may have burned their cooking, he continued his work. However, when a second alarm sounded, they realized the situation could be more serious. Reed called 999 while Moorhouse climbed down from the tree to investigate.
Using a hammer, Moorhouse smashed a window and entered the smoke-filled property, discovering a fire involving a tumble dryer. He heard the occupant calling for help from upstairs but was forced back outside by thick black smoke to catch his breath. Determined to help, he ran back into the house a second time, made his way upstairs, and found the elderly woman in a bedroom. He carried her downstairs to safety as firefighters arrived at the bottom of the stairs to assist.
Hospital Recovery and Commendation
Both Moorhouse and the resident were taken to hospital after breathing in smoke but have since made a full recovery. The fire is believed to have been caused by a tumble dryer. Moorhouse was invited to a special presentation ceremony at Macclesfield Fire Station this week, where Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive Alex Waller presented him with the Chief Fire Officer's Commendation.
Following the presentation, Moorhouse thanked attendees for their support. He was also reunited with the firefighters who had provided him with first aid after the rescue. The Chief Fire Officer's Commendation is the highest honour the fire service can award to a member of the public, recognizing outstanding acts of bravery, courage, or selflessness.
Chief Fire Officer's Praise
Chief Fire Officer 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."
