A firefighter from Oldham who came to the aid of victims in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017 has been recognised for his charitable efforts with a prestigious award.
Aaron Parmar, of Oldham White Watch, was a police officer when he was deployed to the arena after a suicide bomber detonated a device as fans left an Ariana Grande concert on May 22, 2017.
The attack killed 22 people, injured 800 and prompted thousands more to seek help and support.
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Speaking about the incident, Aaron said he witnessed "first-hand" the "physical and emotional trauma caused in the weeks and months after" the attack.
It inspired him to join Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and embark on a series of fundraising missions to aid the victims and their families.
This has included completing 22 races, each 10k in length, in honour of those who tragically lost their lives in the attack.
Each finisher medal of the race was engraved with the name of one of the victims he dedicated the run to and raised a whopping £15,000 towards the We Love Manchester Emergency Fund and the Manchester memorial fund.
Aaron is also the founder of the Manchester Remembers Foundation which stages an annual charity football match at Boundary Park where a hefty line-up of celebrities go head-to-head with footballing legends to raise money towards the cause.
To date, it has raised more than £117,500 and this year will take place at Latics home pitch on Sunday, July 28.
In total, Aaron has helped raise more than £170,000 for victims of the Manchester Arena bomb.
Now, Aaron has been recognised for his incredible efforts and determination in shining a spotlight on this cause that is close to his heart.
The firefighter has been invited to Westminster to collect his British Citizen Award on Thursday, July 25.
The British Citizen Award recognises individuals for doing extraordinary things in their local community.
Aaron also received a Chief's Commendation (Image: GMFRS)
Celebrating the news, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: "We're incredibly proud of him and his work.
"Aaron's selflessness and generosity hasn't gone unnoticed by his colleagues.
"He got a Chief's Commendation at our recognition event last week for his charity work and dedication to his local community.
"Well deserved Aaron, we're proud to have you at Team GMFRS."
Aaron also said in a post on social media: "Well, the secret's out.
"Honoured and a tad overwhelmed but grateful for all the support along the way.
"This really isn't just about me, it's about the army of supporters (you lot!) that make it all possible.
"Grateful to every one of you!"
Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk
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