A Charlton van driver has been hailed as a hero after saving a man who crashed into him, leaving his car engulfed by flames.

The van driver spotted the car this morning as it veered towards him on Victoria Way, just before 10.45am, hitting his vehicle head on.

He noticed the man was unconscious, with his foot on the accelerator and fire fighters think this caused the vehicle to catch fire.

Seeing this, the quick-thinking van driver smashed the car window, dragging the man out of his vehicle.

Crew Manager Peter Davies said: "The van driver undoubtedly saved the man’s life. 

"When we arrived the car was completely engulfed and two firefighters from East Greenwich did an excellent job of getting the fire under control quickly while other firefighters gave oxygen to the now semi-conscious car driver.

"I will be recommending that the driver of the van receives a brigade commendation for his actions."

The car driver was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.

Do you know either driver? Call News Shopper on 01689 885703 or email mchandler@london.newsquest.co.uk