Man saves driver from burning car

A man from Stroud has been praised by the fire brigade after pulling a driver from a burning car.

Robert Kuczaj saved the victim's life, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service said after the crash on Saturday, near Selsley Common in the Cotswolds.

The car was alight after crashing into a tree when Mr Kuczaj passed by.

"There were flames in the car, and I was shouting at the driver that we have got to get you out, but he didn't seem to be with it," he said.

"I tried to pull the drivers door open, and eventually it buckled at the top enough for me to open it, he added.

'Quick thinking'

"I think it was just sheer adrenalin that I managed to pull the door open.

"The driver then began screaming that his foot was on fire. I shouted to him that you're going to die if you don't help me to get yourself out."

Another passer-by joined the rescue to help put the flames out, and the driver was pulled free.

He is being treated at hospital for broken bones. Mr Kuczaj sustained minor burns and cuts to his hands and face.

Tom Curtis, from the fire brigade, said: "Mr Kuczaj is a very brave individual who no doubt saved the life of the driver, and is to be commended for his quick thinking and decisive actions."