'I wouldn't be here now if it wasn't for you': Wolverhampton pensioner saved after explosion thanks police

David Chilton was blown off his feet following an explosion in the workshop of his Wolverhampton home while trying to extinguish a small electrical fire.

The 63-year-old – who is registered disabled – suffered burns to his legs and smoke inhalation as the fire took hold around him.

Thankfully two Wolverhampton Police beat bobbies on patrol near David's home in Griffiths Drive, Ashmore Park, saw smoke rising behind the property and ran to investigate.

PC Darren Barfield and PCSO Stephen Cosford fought their way through the flames and thick smoke to drag David to safety.

He spent the day in hospital but is now at home continuing his recovery – and reflecting on what might have happened had the officers not ran to the rescue.

"Looking back now it's only just dawning on me that I could well have died in there," said David. "If it wasn't for the officers I wouldn't be here today… I truly believe that.

"I'm hugely grateful and I hope they both get an award for what they did.

"I was taking a break from clearing the workshop when the electricity went off. I went to see what had tripped it when I noticed white smoke coming from the workshop and flames leap across the ceiling.

"I emptied one fire extinguisher and picked up another when there was a huge explosion. I fell over and felt charred wood come crashing down on my legs. The heat was immense and the smoke thick black, choking me.

"I couldn't see a thing, was disorientated and had actually stumbled to the back of the workshop away from the entrance. The next thing I knew I felt someone grab my collar and drag me away – it was one of the officers. I don't know how long I was in there for but it felt like a lifetime."

Fire crews attended the scene at around 5.30pm on April 10 to successfully tackle the blaze and stop it spreading to other buildings.

PCSO Stephen Cosford has worked with West Midlands Police for 12 years – having walked the beat in Stechford before Wednesfield – and describes the rescue as the most dramatic incident in his community policing career.

He added: "The workshop was completely gutted. The heat part-melted Mr Chilton's caravan and another nearby vehicle.

"The shed was well alight when we arrived, a few minutes later and it could have been a different story. I'm just so happy that David wasn't seriously hurt.

"Most of my time is spent walking the patch, speaking to the public and addressing their concerns. Fire rescue is a first for me… but I'm glad to have been able to help."