An Aberystwyth police constable and a Cardigan PCSO have been honoured for their valour at an international police conference in Alaska.

PC Jessica Hanley received a Certificate of Bravery from the Society for the Protection of Life from Fire for her “selfless and brave” actions in helping to evacuate trapped guests from Aberystwyth’s burning Ty Belgrave Hotel.

And PCSO Caryl Griffiths, who jumped into the River Teifi in a vain attempt to save a two-year-old girl, was presented with the International Association of Women’s Police Civilian of the Year Award at the luncheon in Anchorage.

The audience was told how PC Hanley was one of the first officers on the scene after Dyfed-Powys Police received reports of a fire at the Ty Belgrave Hotel on Aberystwyth promenade in the early hours of Wednesday, 25 July, 2018.

With people reportedly trapped on the first and second floors, PC Hanley was said to have showed “exemplary bravery in entering the burning hotel with no thoughts for her own safety, to clear and evacuate guests (including two young children) trapped inside”.

She was also said to have helped a disorientated colleague to safety by remaining “calm, professional and clear-headed” and drawing attention to the danger posed by a collapsing floor.

PC Hanley additionally assisted in the evacuation of the adjoining Belle Vue Hotel.

“In total, 59 occupants were rescued,” read the citation. “Constable Hanley acted with the utmost bravery, care and compassion in very challenging circumstances.

“Sadly, one resident perished in the incident which was caused by deliberate ignition and which resulted in the collapse of flooring and roof in both premises.”

See next week’s south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition on Wednesday