A HERO policeman could be in line for a commendation after his quick actions helped save the life of a suicidal man.

PC Dave Williams rushed to the Arndale Centre in Accrington, along with colleague PC Richard Thompson, after reports that a man was sitting precariously on the outside wall of the multi-storey car park.

By the time they arrived around 4.50pm last Thursday the man was leaning over the edge so the officers rushed to the roof.

PC Williams then attempted to strike up a rapport with the man, who was threatening to kill himself, in an attempt to talk him down, while PC Thompson stayed in the background observing the developing situation.

But after 20 minutes the man tried to lurch forward off the ledge. Without a thought for his own safety, PC Williams made a desperate attempt to stop him falling by grabbing hold of a bag he was carrying.

He dragged the man back over the ledge and he and PC Thompson then pinned him down to stop him trying to end his life again, eventually managing to subdue him enough to walk him downstairs.

The man, from Accrington, was taken away by ambulance and has been sectioned under the Mental Health Act.

Modest PC Williams said: "I just did what came naturally. I could see he was in a very distressed state and tried to make an effort to talk to him. It was quite clear from the conversation his intention was to end his life.

"The main thing I had in my mind was I wasn't going to allow him to throw himself off and I was going to do everything I could to stop that happening."

Sergeant Martin Knight said: "PC Williams probably saved his life. There was a direct, vertical drop on to the roadway below. I was quite clear that any fall would have been fatal."

He added: "This officer acted in the best traditions of the Lancashire Constabulary. He demonstrated dedication and professionalism.

"Without his intervention this would have resulted in extreme injury if not death."

Sergeant Allen Davies said: "PC Williams' behaviour was completely commendable and he will be considered for further recognition for his professionalism and dedication."