OFFICERS who risked their lives to save a teenage girl from being struck by a train have been commended for their courage.

Pc Tobias Kemp and Pc Chris Aldridge were awarded during a special ceremony at police HQ in Chelmsford on Friday (January 13).

Earlier this month, they attended an incident in Chelmsford where a high risk missing 13-year-old-girl was found near a railway track.

Pc Aldrige calmly engaged with the girl who was in a great deal of distress before negotiating with her as Pc Kemp edged his way closer to her.

As the train approached, the girl made a move towards it and without hesitation, however, Pc Kemp leapt forward and grabbed the girl to prevent her being struck.

He held her out of the way until the train had passed.

Speaking before  the ceremony, Roger Hirst, Essex police and crime commissioner, said: "I’m always stunned by your bravery, professionalism and the way that you manage to deal with extraordinary crisis in a very short and prompt space of time by resolving things and saving people’s lives.”