By Cara Sulieman
A MAN who tried to save tragic teen Jessica McCagh after her boyfriend set her alight was among those being awarded a bravery awards from First Minister Alex Salmond today (Weds).
Jessica was just 17 when her boyfriend Stewart Blackburn poured petrol over her and set her alight before trapping her in their flat in Arbroath in April 2009.
Blackburn, 18, was found guilty of murdering Jessica earlier this year and was ordered to spend at least 21 years behind bars.
Neighbour Ricci Foreman – who was 19 at the time of the attack – was in the flat above and rushed to help when he heard Jessica’s screams.
Smashing his way into the flat through the blocked front door and found Jessica “covered head to toe in flames” with her face “melting”.
In a desperate attempt to help, Ricci used a fish tank to pour water over her.
But the flames kept reigniting, killing Jessica.
Brave Ricci – who is now 20 – tried to drag Jessica to safety and managed to get her out of the flat before he collapsed from smoke inhalation.
He didn’t suffer any serious injury in the incident despite risking his life to try and save Jessica.
Honour
The prosecutor described the murder as “barbaric and evil” and after the trial Jessica’s family thanked Ricci for his bravery.
And now Ricci is to be one of 50 Scots to receive the first ever Brave@Heart awards from the First Minister today (Wed).
Mr Foreman, now aged 20, said he was “over the moon” with the honour.
“It was quite a surprise. I just did the same thing that anybody would have done in the circumstances,” he said earlier.
The ceremony was held to recognise members of the Scottish public who have displayed acts of courage.
First Minister Alex Salmond said: “Scotland should be proud of its heroes and recognise their achievements.
“An annual awards ceremony is a fitting way to give those responsible for outstanding acts of courage the recognition that they deserve.
Heroism
“I am impressed and humbled by the heroism and selflessness of everyone who has been selected for a Brave@Heart Award.
“Their courage in the face of danger and concern for their fellow man is truly inspiring.”
