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Two men who stopped on the A465 between Rhymney and Merthyr Tydfil to rescue a nine-month-old baby from a burning car have been recognised as ‘Community Stars’ for their actions.

Mother Alex McClean, 21, from Ebbw Vale, was travelling with baby Lilah on January 14 when her car suddenly lost power and began filling with smoke.

After pulling into a lay-by, she escaped the vehicle but was unable to open the rear or passenger doors to reach her daughter.

As flames spread, passing motorist Wesley Beynon and his uncle Marc Willding stopped to help.

The pair have been commended for their bravery with a Community Stars award, presented by Senedd Member Dawn Bowden, MP Gerald Jones, Merthyr Council leader Brent Carter and deputy leader David Jones.

Ms Bowden, Senedd Member for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney, told them: “What you did typifies the spirit of Merthyr Tydfil.

“The Community Stars award is a recognition of your actions and the bravery shown in rescuing baby Lilah. You had the presence of mind to stop and help when others had driven past.

“It must have been nerve-wracking. I know that their actions have rightly drawn praise from people far and wide. The Community Stars award is a recognition for their kind and brave efforts.”

Wes explained: “We were driving along the dual carriageway, and we could see the smoke. The car was already in flames and we knew something was wrong.

“We pulled over, jumped out and ran to the car. Things then took over and we managed to get in the car and get the baby out.”

Community Stars is an award scheme that Dawn Bowden MS and Gerald Jones MP have run for several years. It gives an opportunity to recognise those people in the local community who go an extra step to help others within the community.