A HEROIC mother who pulled her neighbour from a burning building just missed out on being given a national award at the Spirit of Fire Awards.

Tracey Marriott travelled to London with her family on Friday for the awards evening after being nominated for the adult hero award.

She was put forward for the title because of her actions when she realised her neighbours home was on fire in August last year.

She and her daughter Lucy Marriott, 19, immediately raced into the home in Heathfield Road, Norton, near Evesham. Miss Marriott had to leave because of the smoke and Mrs Marriott pulled 64-year-old Tom Moir out alive, going back to rescue his dog.

Sadly Mr Moir later died but Mrs Marriott's action did not go un-noticed.

Despite missing out of the award Mrs Marriott said it was a day she would never forget.

"It was an absolutely amazing day," said the 50-year-old. "We went to Downing Street and it was fantastic. It was a day I will never forget.

"Alan Chapman won the award, it was deserved. He pulled a woman from a burning car after it overturned and suffered burns himself.!

And although she has been branded a hero, Mrs Marriott remains very manner of fact.

"I would have felt worse if I had stood outside and thought he was burning alive sat in bed. I couldn't have lived with myself.

"I have never cared about winning the award, I was just glad to be able to go."