A policeman has been nominated for a bravery award after dragging two women from a burning house.

Sussex Police dog handler Eric Wells fought back the flames as he put his life at risk to rescue the women in March last year.

PC Wells, 38, was on routine patrol when he spotted smoke and flames billowing from a house in Millers Road, Brighton.

He forced his way into the property but was beaten back by the roaring inferno.

Pc Wells then saw two women banging on a window and shouting for help. Grabbing a nearby stepladder he smashed the window and helped the women down.

They told him another lady remained in the burning building. Again PC Wells tried to enter, this time closing the door behind him to contain the fire.

But once again he was beaten back by the flames and falling debris. He shouted to the woman to stay by the window until help arrived.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service control room staff spoke to her while she was waiting for crews to get to the end-of-terrace building. When they arrived they used a ladder and platform to lift her to safety.

PC Wells, who has been an officer for more than 19 years, said: "It all happened so quickly I just did not have time to think.

"It had been a fairly quiet night before all this happened. I just tried to use my logic and common sense."

PC Wells, who suffered minor burns and cuts as a result of the blaze, received a Chief Constable's Commendation as well as the Queen's Commendation for Bravery.

His dogs George, a German shepherd, and Neo, a springer spaniel, remained in his van.

Now his colleagues have voted him the bravest officer in Sussex and put him forward for the national award.

Chairman of Sussex Police Federation Brian Stockham said: "Police officers are constantly performing outstanding acts of bravery and this award is special as it is nominated by fellow officers.

"This whole incident is awe inspiring, but the closure of the door after the second forced entry demonstrates absolute cool in confronting an inferno."

The Police Bravery Awards are hosted in partnership with The Sun newspaper and honour police officers across England and Wales for their actions to tackle criminals and keep the public safe.

This year marks their 13th anniversary.

The ceremony will take place on Thursday at London's Dorchester Hotel.