A GARDEN in memory of a Ramsbottom firefighter who drowned six years ago has won a national accolade.

The garden, honouring Paul Metcalf, was created by colleagues at the rear of Ramsbottom Fire Station with funds raised by the fire service and the public following his death at Simons Lodge in Holcombe on September 5, 1999.

The part-time firemans safety rope became tangled on underwater branches when he attempted in vain to save 15-year-old student Reyaz Ali from the freezing lake. Both bodies were later recovered by police divers. Shortly after, Ramsbottom fire crews organised a collection and a host of fundraising events to pay for a memorial garden in a lasting tribute to the firefighter.

Now, the garden at the rear of the station in Stubbins Lane has won the B&Q Battle of the Work Garden competition, which saw gardening experts from the DIY company scouring the country to find the nations best. The Paul Metcalf Memorial Garden was awarded £2,500 towards its upkeep. Leading firefighter Ray Bailey from Ramsbottom, said: "The fire station is very proud of Paul, whose name has been added to the roll of honour which displays all firemen who died in the line of duty.

"People who have visited the garden are very pleased with it. "

The money will be used to buy new flowers and maintain the garden.

Borough commander Kevin Whitehead said: " I am really pleased with this award and very proud of all the officers who helped to build the garden as a lasting tribute to Paul."