Firefighters who formed a human chain to pluck a woman from freezing flood waters in Baildon have been nominated for a national bravery award.

The quick thinking team of rescuers also commandeered a JCB digger to help save Karen Brook who was in danger of being washed away in floods in November 2000 which were the worst for half a century.

Now their inspiring story has earned them a place in the shortlist of the Life Savers award which will be presented by Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Assistant Divisional Officer Keith Robinson, who oversaw the rescue, said they were proud to be nominated.

"We saved her life in extremely difficult circumstances and it is an honour to be recognised for the work we do," said ADO Robinson, who is in charge of the Fire Investigation Team based at Nelson Street in Bradford.

"It was a team effort and we were in the right place at the right time and we did risk our own lives that day."

Mrs Brook, 40, of Dewhirst Close, Baildon, had been walking with her shopping in Otley Road when she lost her footing in strong water current after the River Aire burst its banks.

She was swept into a car park under about six feet of water and was left clinging to a post.

A passer-by called the fire service and Sub Officer Kevin Mackrill waded into the torrent to help Mrs Brook.

But with conditions deteriorating, ADO Robinson spotted a passing JCB digger which they stopped and secured a human chain with firefighters, police and three members of the public to rescue her.

Gavin Darby, of Vodaphone UK, which is sponsoring the awards, said their nomination showed a story of incredible courage. "It has been an extremely difficult task for our judges to select the national shortlist but we felt the West Yorkshire Fire Service strongly deserved to be honoured."

Ten finalists will be selected from the shortlist by a judging panel which includes former Metropolitan Police Commiss-ioner Lord Condon, Falklands War veteran Simon Weston, TV presenter Gaby Roslin and actor Bill Cole who stars in The Bill.