Barry Snowdon rushed to the rescue after seeing a truck on fire just yards from a BP petrol station on Sherwood Street on 16th July.

Quick-thinking Barry (40) leapt into action to prevent the vehicle exploding after realising it was carrying high-pressure gas bottles and other flammable items – by using a fire extinguisher from the petrol station to put out the blaze single-handedly.

Barry told Chad: "I could see the lorry was in danger of exploding and just did what anyone would have done — my instincts were just to get the fire out as quickly as possible.

"I'm not a super hero, just a road sweeper who takes pride in keeping Warsop clean for the residents who have made me very welcome over the last four years."

It is the second time the Mansfield District Council worker has proved himself a hero after chasing and catching a handbag thief last March.

The thief was later sentenced to three months in prison while the handbag was returned to its grateful owner.

Barry was awarded a commendation by Mansfield mayor Tony Egginton for his bravery on that occasion.

"The fact that Barry is keeping the streets clean in more ways than one is fantastic," Mr Egginton told Chad this week.

"Both incidents show that Barry is extremely brave and always willing to go above and beyond the call of duty.

"But super heroics aside, Barry is extremely popular and well thought of on his patch in Warsop and we regularly get positive comments from businesses and residents about his dedication to the job and his diligent attitude."