A HERO teacher is to receive a national bravery award for risking his life to rescue a man from a burning car after it crashed into a tree killing one person.
Bill Lammie, 53, who teaches science at St Kentigern's Academy in Blackburn, is one of 50 Scots who
will receive the new annual Brave@Heart, and St Andrew's awards.
The married father-of-one pulled a man from a BMW which had burst into flames after crashing into a tree in Harburn Road, West Calder, in March 2008.
Passenger Colin Watson, 20, from Broxburn, escaped to safety from the tragic car crash, which saw 27-year-old Alan Hutchison die at the wheel on Harburn Road.
Mr Watson's other friend, Richard Kerr, from Craigshill, was trapped in the car's back seat and couldn't move due to his injuries, but the quick thinking and bravery of Mr Lammie and passer-by Cameron Bell, from Loch Lomond, saved his life when they both teamed up to pull him from certain death.
The commendations replace the First Minister's Commendation for Meritorious Conduct and the annual Scotland's Heroes First Minister's reception as the official Scottish Government recognition for bravery.
A special ceremony will held at Edinburgh Castle by First Minister Alex Salmond on 9 June.
"It's very nice, and lovely to be going to Edinburgh Castle to meet the First Minister," said Mr Lammie. "I couldn't have turned down that opportunity.
"It's great just to be nominated for these things because it was a fantastic experience at the police awards. Just sitting listening to the things people have done was amazing.
"It's also good to know that if someone needs help there are people out there willing to help. You never think of the consequences or anything like this at the time and I much prefer my anonymity, but I'm looking forward to it."
It's the third award Mr Lammie has received for his amazing act of bravery. He was also commended by Lothian Borders Police at their Meritorious Awards last year, and the Society for the Protection of Life Against Fire.
He will join 23 other brave members of the public and 26 emergency staff at the awards ceremony with the First Minister.
Mr Salmond said: "Scotland should be proud of its heroes and recognise their achievements. An annual awards ceremony is a fitting way to give those responsible for outstanding acts of courage the recognition that they deserve.
"I am impressed and humbled by the heroism and selflessness of everyone who has been selected for a Brave@Heart Award.
"Their courage in the face of danger and concern for their fellow man is truly inspiring. I look forward to marking and celebrating their remarkable actions at the Brave@Heart reception next month."
