FEW people who remember Firefighter Stephen King's dramatic rescue of a woman being swept down the swollen River Severn will have forgotten the breathtaking horror of it.

He was one of those rare people who have time to assess the danger before risking his life, and yet still stands up to be counted - and be counted upon - all the same.

Such a special kind of courage was acknowledged yesterday.

In presenting his prestigious Order of St John Bronze Lifesaving medal, the Lord Lieutenant reflected on the public's general expectation of the emergency services, always there when they're needed, performing tasks we all take for granted.

We don't wish to tempt fate. However, when most of us are tucked up tonight - more likely tomorrow, if Evening News weatherman Paul Damari's right - listening to the wind and rain, men like Stephen King will be on duty.

It's not just the fire brigade, of course. The police and ambulance services will be equally willing and prepared to answer the call. Power workers and council staff will also be ready to brave the elements on our behalf.

God forbid that the weather to come will be as devastating as the Easter floods of 1998. But, if it is, we should spare a thought for them all.

IT'S barely a week since we ventured a view that there was little reason to walk on with hope in our hearts, so far as the job of England soccer coach was concerned - and so it has been proved.

Top marks to BBC Hereford & Worcester's Mike George for throwing his hat into the ring, and bad luck on missing out. We need more like him.

Enthusiasm to do the job - his main selling point - would appear to be in short supply among those whose names are being touted by the FA.

If the saga goes on much longer, though, he may turn out to be the most qualified man left in the chase.