TWO Newent brothers who helped rescue two young women trapped beneath a car following the devastating Culver Street collision have been praised for their bravery by the father of one of the victims.

Jacob and Kyle Harris were among the first people to reach the scene after a silver Ford Kuga mounted the pavement and struck five pedestrians on July 15.

The incident left Thea Gulliksen and Ruby Cooke with life threatening injuries. Ruby remains in a serious but stable condition at Southmead Hospital in Bristol.

Ruby's father, James Cooke, believes the brothers' quick thinking prevented an even greater tragedy after they worked together to jack up the vehicle and free the trapped women.

He said: "I will be forever grateful that these young men acted so courageously in such an intense situation. They should be recognised in your local community for the incredible men they are."

Mr Cooke said Ruby still remembers Jacob staying by her side and comforting her while they waited for emergency services to arrive.

He added: "Lottie told me that without the actions of Kyle and Jacob in jacking up the car and freeing Thea and Ruby that night the outcome would have been so much worse."

While grateful for the praise, Kyle Harris said others also deserved recognition.

He said: "Many neighbours helped that night too. Luke, Tracy and others all stepped in straight away, and they deserve recognition as well."

Mr Cooke added: "I believe both Jacob and Kyle may be underestimating just what a difference they have made."