Three quick-thinking medics have been praised for their “selfless actions” in leading more than 20 people to safety from a burning building in Canning Town.

Patient transport crew Afonso Kilola, David Pluck and Stuart Heath were on their way to a non-emergency call at around 2.15pm yesterday when they saw a large amount of smoke billowing from a block of maisonettes in Beaconsfield Road.

The trio, who are based at Becontree Ambulance Station, immediately stopped and called to alert the London Fire Brigade.

They then entered the building to alert residents.

As a result, more than 20 people, including children, were safely evacuated.

Mr Kilola said: “We were in a neighbouring street when we happened to see what appeared to be quite a large amount of smoke billowing from this residential block.

“I’m just glad that we were in the vicinity of the building at that time, and able to gain entry to make the residents aware of what was going on.

“I can speak for myself, David and Stuart when I say that we are so thankful that no one came to any serious harm.”

Director of operations, Jason Killens, added: “I would like to say a big thank you to the guys for their selfless actions and sheer bravery earlier.

“If they hadn’t entered the building and raised the alarm when they did, we could have been faced with a situation much more serious than the one we ended up with.

“They have really done themselves and London Ambulance Service proud.”

One man was treated at the scene for minor burns to his hands and a boy was treated for minor injuries.

The maisonette was badly damaged by the fire, while those on the floor above it were also affected.

The London Fire Brigade is currently investigating the cause.