Two men awarded rare accolade for their help after Benwell explosion last year
Dave Fenwick and Stuart Turnbull have been given commendations from the Chief Constable of Northumbria Police
Two men who helped residents and emergency services following a deadly explosion in Newcastle have been commended by Northumbria Police.
Dozens of families were forced out of their homes in the middle of the night when the blast tore through Violet Close, Benwell, on 16 October last year.
Two people, including 7-year-old Archie York, were killed.
The cause of the explosion was the ignition of a build-up of butane gas, which had been used as part of an illegal cannabis operation.
Stuart Turnbull was Newcastle City Council's lead officer with responsibility for the site in the aftermath, and he helped families retrieve essential and sentimental items from their homes while keeping the site safe.
Stuart, who has worked at the authority for 32 years, said: “Being recognised by Northumbria Police was a great honour and very unexpected.
“I am very proud to have played my part in helping all those families and residents who were affected by the tragic events.”
Also commended was Dave Fenwick, of the demolition company Thompsons of Prudhoe, who assisted the police in searching through the debris for evidence which led to a successful conviction.
A spokesperson for Thompsons of Prudhoe said: “We are incredibly proud of Dave and the professionalism, skill, and dedication he demonstrated throughout the response and recovery operation.
“Dave’s exceptional work under such challenging circumstances not only supported the police in their meticulous search for evidence but also ensured the safe clearance and demolition of the site.
Both men were presented with a Chief Constable’s Commendation - which is rare for civilians to receive.
Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine, of Northumbria Police, added: “It is an immense privilege to recognise these acts in such difficult circumstances.
“I would personally like to thank both Dave and Stuart for going above and beyond and I hope this recognition allows them to take pride in the difference their actions have made.”