Two police officers who saved an arsonist from a burning building have received an award from Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS).

Sgt James Cattermole and PC Louis Southon rescued Christopher Pain from a fire he started in Sellindge, between Folkestone and Ashford, in May.

The pair were presented with the KFRS Act of Bravery Award by fire service chief executive Ann Millington at a ceremony at the Kent Showground on Friday, October 1.

Ms Millington said: "Acting Police Sergeant James Cattermole and PC Louis Southon demonstrated a clear priority towards their casualty, despite the initial threat and circumstances, and the effects of smoke inhalation. They are very deserving of the KFRS Act of Bravery Award, and we thank them for their service."

The two officers were called to Brook Lane Cottages at 12.40am on May 3 following reports Pain was carrying a knife and threatening to injure himself.

He refused refused to engage and shouted abuse before starting a fire in the property's living room.

The officers eventually managed to pull Pain from the house. The 57-year-old was arrested and taken to hospital as a precaution before being charged.

Police officer risks his life to save an arsonist from a burning building

He later pleaded guilty to arson and was jailed for four years, and ordered to serve an extra two years on licence, at Canterbury Crown Court in July.

Sgt Cattermole said: "It was a real honour for PC Southon and I to be recognised for our response to this incident, alongside our brave colleagues from Kent Fire and Rescue Service, and shows the strong working partnership between our two organisations."

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone