A police officer has received a prestigious award for his bravery during the aftermath of the Paddington rail crash.

PC Michael McKee was given a commissioner's high commendation at a ceremony at New Scotland Yard for his courageous actions at the scene of the tragedy at Ladbroke Grove in October 1999.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir John Stevens presented the award to the 34-year-old for his outstanding bravery, professionalism and dedication to duty.

PC McKee, who has since transferred to Sussex and is based in Chichester, was one of the first officers at the scene.

He was greeted by a wall of flames, dangerous structures and live overhead cables.

Numerous people were escaping from the trains, some with severe injuries and most covered in blood.

PC McKee, whose wife is expecting their first child in October, immediately went down to the trackside and got into the burning carriages searching for casualties.

He gave first aid and carried out resuscitation in difficult circumstances.

He placed himself in great danger in an attempt to rescue passengers trapped in the wreckage.

PC McKee said: "I felt extremely proud to receive this award from the commissioner. At Ladbroke Grove I did what I felt any other officer would have done as part of our duty to serve the public."

Sir John said: "The reason we give commendations is to recognise those people who have gone beyond the call of duty.

"Policing is a massively difficult task and it takes special qualities. The compassion, bravery and professionalism shown by officers during this tragic incident underlines everything that is good about the Metropolitan Police and I am hugely proud of everyone who was involved."