HERO cop Neil Matthews has been given a bravery award for risking his life trying to save murder victim Sean Hook.

The Dean dad of two battled in vain to save Sean who had been stabbed six times by love rival Ricky Enfield in a jealous rage.

Now he has been given the Chief Constable's top commendation for courage and professionalism.

But he says the award from Chief Constable Mick Matthews was overshadowed by the fact that dad Sean died.

Sgt Anton Campbell was also awarded the Chief Constable's top commendation after rescuing a disabled pensioner from a burning bungalow in Cinderford.

He and colleague Stephen James were forced to throw a paving slab through the double-glazed window to rescue pensioner Jim Boddington who was trapped inside.

"It's nice to get the recognition but I was only doing my job," said dad-of-two Anton, 30.

A team of Forest cops were also praised for bringing in a system to catch metal thieves which has since become a national blueprint for success.