TWO Newent brothers who helped rescue two young women trapped beneath a car following the devastating Culver Street collision have been praised for their bravery by the father of one of the victims.

Jacob and Kyle Harris were among the first people to reach the scene after a silver Ford Kuga mounted the pavement and struck five pedestrians on Culver Street on July 15.

The incident left Thea Gulliksen and Ruby Cooke with life threatening injuries. Thea was taken to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, while Ruby was transferred to the Major Trauma Centre at Southmead Hospital in Bristol, where she remains in a serious but stable condition.

As previously reported by The Forester, three other people suffered less serious injuries and were later discharged from hospital. The driver, a woman in her 60s from Newent, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving before being released under investigation while police enquiries continue.

Ruby's father, James Cooke, has now spoken publicly to thank the brothers, saying their quick thinking and courage prevented an even greater tragedy.

Mr Cooke said Jacob and Kyle worked together to jack up the vehicle and free the trapped women before emergency services arrived.

He said: "I will be forever grateful that these young men acted so courageously in such an intense situation. They should be recognised in your local community for the incredible men they are."

Although he acknowledged many people helped that evening, Mr Cooke said conversations with those directly involved convinced him the brothers' actions were exceptional.

"I have personally spoken with all the girls involved and know that what they did was special," he said.

Since the collision, Mr Cooke has met Kyle and spoken with Jacob, describing both brothers as deeply affected by what they witnessed.

He has kept them updated on the condition of those injured and said Ruby has never forgotten the comfort she received while waiting for emergency crews.

"My daughter Ruby had her back towards the car when it struck them but still remembers Jacob sitting with her and comforting her while waiting for the emergency services," he said.

Mr Cooke also revealed another of the young people involved, Lottie, believes the brothers' actions prevented the situation becoming even more tragic.

He said: "Lottie told me that without the actions of Kyle and Jacob in jacking up the car and freeing Thea and Ruby that night the outcome would have been so much worse."

While grateful for the praise, Kyle Harris said he wanted to ensure others who came to help were also recognised.

He said: "Many neighbours helped that night too. Luke, Tracy and others all stepped in straight away, and they deserve recognition as well."

Mr Cooke believes the brothers may not appreciate the significance of what they achieved.

He added: ”I believe that both Jacob and Kyle may be underestimating just what a difference they have made and I know it will help all four girls and Kevin if their actions are recognised,"