Express & Star

Bravery award for sister in raid ordeal

A brave Walsall youngster who protected her little sister when her family was taken hostage at their home has been honoured with a top police award for her bravery.

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Renée-Mai Bolter, sprang into action to protect little sister Lexie-Mai from a male attacker, who was holding them and mother Katie prisoner.

Renée-Mai, who was seven at the time, lay over eight-month-old Lexie-Mai as punches rained down on her. As the drama unfolded around her on July 31, 2011, Renée-Mai was able to find her mother's mobile phone and call a relative so they could get help.

The man later set the house on fire, with the family losing all their possessions.

Renée-Mai, now aged nine, has been recognised for her brave actions by West Midlands Police. Her mother Katie, aged 28, said: "Renée has made me very proud, she acted very grown up. If she hadn't acted as she did, we would have been more seriously hurt or even worse."

The man who attacked them had done work at the home, becoming known to the family. He was sentenced to seven years in prison. An extended five-year period of licence on release along with a restraining order was imposed.

She received the Chief Constable's Commendation, the highest honour the force can bestow, from Chief Constable Chris Sims at a ceremony.

For the full story see today's Express and Star.

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