Two brave Bradford bobbies have been nominated for a national award after risking their lives to try and rescue a man.

PCs Gary McNeill and Jamie Smith, of Bradford Central police station, have been nominated as West Yorkshire's bravest officers in the annual Police Federation Bravery Awards.

They will be attending the awards later this month in London, which includes a meeting Prime Minister Tony Blair, his wife Cherie Booth and Home Secretary Jack Straw at 10 Downing Street.

In November last year, the two were called to a report of an explosion and fire at the home of a man who had threatened to kill himself.

The man had poured petrol over himself and set it alight. Despite dense and choking smoke, the two officers wrapped wet towels round their faces so they could search the house.

The found the man and stayed with him until ambulance crews arrived.

Both officers were given oxygen and treated at Bradford Royal Infirmary. The man, who had suffered horrific burns, died later.

PC McNeill said: "When we got into the bathroom we were met by a wall of black smoke. But we were just doing our job."

The Bradford PCs will be up against officers from another 33 forces from across the country. The eight regional areas are divided into the South East, South West, London, Northern, North West, the Midlands, Eastern and Wales. The overall winner is selected from among the regional winners.

Fred Broughton, Chairman of the Police Federation, said: "The Police Bravery Award is a tangible way to say a big thank you to unsung heroes of the service who regularly put their lives at risk to help others and uphold the law.

"We owe each and every nominee a huge debt of gratitude and it is only fitting that those who risk so much to protect others, should be honoured for their outstanding courage."

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