A GROUP of teenagers who rescued a great-grandmother, aged91, from a house fire have been hailed as heroes by the fire service’s top boss.

The brave youngsters sprang into action after seeing smoke coming from a house in Blackburn Road, Astley Bridge, last September. The blaze broke out after a pan had been left on the cooker and mother-of-six Dorothy Booth, now aged 92, had fallen asleep in front of the television.

The friends — current and former Sharples High School pupils — banged on the door to get Mrs Booth’s attention.  They then went to the back of the home, getting her to safety then throwing the pan outside.

This week the teenagers were thanked by the County Fire Officer of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) at a special presentation ceremony at Bolton North Fire Station. Mrs Booth was also there to thank three of the boys, Matthew Reilly, Ashley Glenn and Grant Walker, all aged 17.

Fellow rescuers Lauren Jones, aged 17, Marisa Barton, aged 16, and Beth Edge, aged 16, were unable to make the event.

County Fire Officer and Chief Executive of GMFRS Steve McGuirk said: “If it hadn’t been for the help of these brave youngsters then the outcome could have been much worse.

“We have officially recognised the brave actions of Matthew, Grant, Ashley, Lauren, Marisa and Beth — they are a credit to our community and should be very proud.”

Mrs Booth said: “I’m really pleased to be at this well-deserved presentation and share just how wonderful I think these teenagers are. They are my Astley Bridge angels.

“The night I had the fire when they came to my rescue was one I won’t forget and one I don’t wish to ever repeat.”

After the presentation the teenagers and their families enjoyed refreshments with Mrs Booth and two of her sons.