Tree surgeon presented with Chief Fire Officer's Commendation for saving woman from house fire

A man who risked his own life to rescue an elderly woman from a house fire in Macclesfield has been presented with a prestigious Chief Fire Officer's Commendation from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Ben Moorhouse was working as a tree surgeon on Rugby Drive in Macclesfield, on 5th March 2026 when he and his colleague, Nathan Reed, heard a smoke alarm sounding from a nearby property, presuming someone may have burnt their cooking.

When a second alarm sounded, they realised the situation could be more serious. Nathan called 999 while Ben climbed down from the tree to investigate. Discovering there was a fire and believing someone was inside, he immediately made the decision to enter the property and help.

Using a hammer to smash a window and gain access, Ben entered the smoke-filled property and discovered a fire involving a tumble dryer. After hearing the occupant call out from upstairs, he was forced back outside by the thick smoke to catch his breath.

Determined to help, Ben re-entered the house and made his way upstairs. Despite being unable to see clearly through the smoke, he found the elderly woman in a bedroom and carried her downstairs to safety. Firefighters arrived as he reached the bottom of the stairs and assisted in bringing her safely from the property.

Both Ben and the occupant required hospital treatment for smoke inhalation but made a full recovery.

Ben was invited to attend a special presentation ceremony at Macclesfield Fire Station on 13 July, where he was presented with a Chief Fire Officer's Commendation by Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive Alex Waller.

Following the presentation, Ben thanked everyone who had attended to support and congratulate him on receiving the award. During the event, he was also reunited with the firefighters who were on duty on the day of the incident and had provided him with first aid following his rescue efforts.

A Chief Fire Officer's Commendation is awarded in recognition of outstanding acts of bravery, courage or selflessness. It is the highest honour Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service can present to a member of the public and is reserved for individuals whose actions have made an exceptional contribution to protecting or saving life.

Speaking at the presentation, Chief Fire Officer Alex Waller said:

"Ben, you are a credit to your family and to our community. You epitomise all that is good about humanity, putting yourself at risk to ensure the safety of others.

"You saw that the life of another person was at risk and, without a second thought, you demonstrated immense courage and bravery."

Ben's selfless actions and willingness to put himself in danger to save another person helped prevent a potentially tragic outcome and make him a worthy recipient of the Service's highest public honour.

Pictured - Ben Moorhouse receiving his commendation.