A brave security officer has won an Outstanding Act award for protecting cinema staff and the public when a man set fire to himself.

It happened at the Cineworld complex on Aspects Leisure Park in Bedford.

Michael Benham, 43, who works for security company VSG, demonstrated quick thinking and aptitude, going beyond the call of duty, judges said.

He was honoured in the South-East round of the British Security Industry Association's Annual Security Officer Awards 2008.

Henk Kruse, area manager for VSG, said: "A former employee entered the foyer of the cinema one evening and poured petrol over the carpets and his own person before setting the fuel alight.

"He also had a number of aerosol cans on his body which exploded with the heat.

"Michael and the duty manager were not only able to tackle the former employee, rolling him in the ground to prevent further harm, but also the fire in the foyer.

"Michael acted swiftly and professionally and almost certainly prevented the former employee from certain death and the cinema from further damage.

"Michael is indeed a credit to the company and his outstanding efforts certainly justify this award."

Stuart Church, Cineworld cinema manager, added: "Michael acted quickly and decisively in what was a very serious situation. His commitment, attitude, bravery and professionalism were without doubt first class. Without Michael's quick reactions, the situation would have escalated. He certainly deserves this award."