Today Sussex joins in mourning for firefighter Alex Kent, who died a hero yesterday.

Alex led his parents to safety from their blazing home before going back into the flames to rescue his younger brother, Philip.

Alex, who was off duty at the time, made the ultimate sacrifice. His parents have lost a brave son and his workmates a superb colleague.

His death, and that of his brother, are terrible reminders of the danger fire can pose in the most ordinary surroundings.

It also pinpoints the heroism that seems instinctive to firefighters.

Most people could or would not have gone near that blazing house but Alex went in without hesitation.

The people of Crowborough and beyond will remember and respect the hero in their midst for many years.