A BIN man from Tipton who rescued a family from a house fire has been recognised by West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS).

Steve Whitehouse climbed up to a first-floor balcony three times to rescue a man, woman and a dog. 

His heroic actions came after he spotted a maisonette on fire on Ridgeway Road, Tipton while he was on his usual trade waste round. 

A total of 19 fire crews attended the blaze, which was believed to have been started by an e-bike battery exploding while on charge at the property.

Steve has said getting a few Greggs orders has been a highlight accolade he has received Steve said as well as this certificate, "getting a few Greggs" has been a highlight accolade he has received (Image: West Midlands Fire Service)

Steve and his family were invited to Tipton Fire Station last week where he was awarded a Certificate of Meritorious Action from the Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Richard Stanton in honour of his quick-thinking that saved the lives.

Steve has received several accolades following his bravery but says he hasn’t been affected by the attention.

Steve, who has worked as a Refuse Operative in Sandwell since 2007, said: “I really can’t believe it—I just did what anyone else would do.

“To be invited to the station, take a look around, and spend time with people who do this sort of work for a living is an absolute pleasure.

“I’ve been recognised on my rounds and even by footballers at events I’ve attended since this happened.

“The best part, though, has been getting a few Greggs orders sorted out, thanks to some vouchers that were sent my way!”

This was the aftermath of the fireThis was the aftermath of the fire (Image: West Midlands Fire Service) Following the rescue earlier this year, on February 27, and once emergency services had checked over the residents, Steve and his partner, Kevin Marriott, who was driving the waste truck, recovered over a coffee and continued their round.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Stanton said: “When I first read about Steve’s story, I was amazed. But after meeting him and hearing about his heroic actions, I can say this is one of the most well-deserved Meritorious Awards I’ve seen given in my career.

“To selflessly put others first in a time of crisis is incredibly impressive. But perhaps even more so is Steve’s attitude afterwards—he doesn’t really see himself as a ‘hero’ at all.

“He is, in every way, exactly that, and it’s been a pleasure to meet him and his wonderful family. I, and I’m sure many others, thank Steve for his actions.”