THE BRAVERY of an Otley man who rescued his neighbours from a devastating fire has been hailed by local councillors.

Olivier Masekessabou rushed to the assistance of his next-door neighbour, Matthew Dykes, and his two sons when their house on The Crossways caught fire in the early hours of Wednesday, July 11.

As recently reported, Mr Masekessabou grabbed a ladder to help the family climb down from an upstairs window - and when he found it to be too short, placed its legs on his shoulders so it would reach.

His quick-thinking ensured the Dykes all escaped serious harm, though they did need hospital treatment for smoke inhalation and, sadly, lost their family dog.

The blaze also destroyed most of the Dykes' house and its contents, while leaving Mr Masekessabou's home - which he shares with his wife, Caroline and their two children - in need of a major clean-up.

Otley Town councillors, led by Town Mayor Councillor Mary Vickers (Lib Dem, Prince Henry's), expressed their admiration for Mr Masekessabou's actions when they met this week.

Councillors Mick Bradley (Green, Danefield) and Kim Holmes (Lib Dem, Ashfield) both have children at the same school that is used by each of the families who were affected by the fire, Ashfield Primary.

Cllr Bradley said: "Olivier showed quick clear thinking and bravery in acting to support the ladder on his shoulders to allow the family to escape.

"Our concern now is that both families are fully supported at this difficult time."

Cllr Holmes added: "We all hope we would act in the way Olivier did in this situation but are not sure if we would manage it."

An appeal to help the Dykes family has now been started has already raised £855 towards a £2,500 target.

It can be found by searching for Matthew Dykes in the crowdfunding section of www.justgiving.com .

Jade Collins, who created the page, says on it: "Matthew Dykes and his children are with no home and virtually no possessions due to a devastating fire.

"Any donations will be greatly received and will help to rebuild the lives of Matthew and his children, Finley and Bailey.

"Any clothing (aged 9-10 and 11-12, men's size medium) or furniture to help Matthew rebuild a home once he has been housed will also be greatly appreciated."

*Councillor Peter Jackson (Lib Dem, Ashfield), meanwhile, has organised a drop-in event in response to this incident and a previous Otley fire to provide local residents with advice on household insurance, fire safety and related matters.

The session takes place at the Otley Core, on Orchard Gate, from 11am to 4pm on Wednesday, August 22.

Representatives from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, Leeds City Council's Housing department and estate agents Dale Eddison will be attending.