Bravery Awards nominees attend Downing Street reception

9 July 2026

Officers who have been nominated for a national Bravery Award following their actions at a fatal house fire said their thoughts were with the family of the victims during a Downing Street reception.

Sergeant Will Barr, PC Brad Bowman, PC Nik Hawke, PC Chris King and PC Lewis Desborough attended a special event with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood at No.10 Downing Street.

The reception was held before the Police Federation of England and Wales Bravery Awards ceremony later today.

The officers were nominated for their actions during the devastating fire in Rushton on 28 March 2025, in which three people, including a young child, sadly lost their lives.

Speaking after the reception, Will said: “We're here for the family.

“Every one of us has said that the main focus for us is that the families know there was a group of us who were willing to go and try and save their loved ones that day.”

The officers joined colleagues from forces across England and Wales for the reception, and Will said it was ‘amazing’ to hear other officers’ stories of bravery.

He said: “It brings everyone together, and makes you realise that there's a lot of people out there that have done some amazing things, and you get everyone together in the same space.

“We've been speaking to all the people in there to see why they're here and what force they're from. It's amazing to hear some of the stories.

“It’s not every day you get to visit Downing Street, we probably won’t again, so it’s been an amazing experience.”

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