A NEWTON soldier has been rewarded for his bravery after he tried to save two young people fatally wounded in a road traffic accident in Manchester.

Sergeant Gary Woodward, aged 39, and three of his colleagues ran to the aid of the casualties as they lay dying outside the Territorial Army HQ of the 207 Manchester Field Hospital Volunteers in Stretford.

"We ran outside when we heard a screech," he said, "and we saw the car spinning.

"It knocked two people down and went through a brick wall."

The car had been stolen and its driver and his passengers ran away as the soldiers tried to revive the two pedestrians despite being surrounded by the burning wreckage.

"The casualties were unconscious," said Gary, "so we carried out first aid until the emergency services arrived.

"There wasn't much we could do for the young lad and he died at the roadside. We got a response from the girl, but she died later in hospital."

Gary's army training taught him what to do in the emergency situation.

"There is initial shock," he said, "but then adrenalin starts to pump and you just get on with it."

This week, the soldiers were awarded a commendation from the General Officer Commanding, Major General Searby.

He said: "It is clear to me that throughout the incident Sgt Woodward maintained the highest standards of professionalism and technical competence bringing considerable credit to himself, his field hospital and the army.

"I am therefore very pleased to be able to award my formal commendation with my warmest congratulations."

Gary, a driver at Manchester Airport, has been in the TA for 15 years. He says he was delighted to receive the award.

"I am very pleased," he said.

"It is a very special award."

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