Two police officers awarded Queen’s Gallantry Medal for their bravery during the helicopter crash at Leicester City Football Club

Sergeant Mike Hooper and PC Steve Quartermain both ran towards the helicopter after it crashed in the car park of the King Power stadium and attempted to save those inside.

PC Quartermain said: “I feel very honoured to be recognised in this way, it’s very humbling.

“It’s important to remember those who lost their lives and everyone who tried to help that night.”

Sgt Hooper added: “I feel incredibly honoured and proud to be receiving the Queen’s Gallantry Medal.

“While it was extraordinary circumstances and something that no police officer would ever want to face in their entire career, I know only that I instinctively; how any other officer from across the country would have reacted.”

All five people on board – the club’s owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, two members of his staff Nusara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare, the pilot Eric Swaffer and his partner, Izabela Roza Lechowicz died in the crash.

Left to right: PC Steve Quatermain and Sgt Mike Hooper with their medals

Image credit: Leicestershire Police