The Edinburgh Evening News is campaigning for a posthumous medal for a local hero firefighter.

Ewan Williamson, 35, died on 12 July as crews battled to overcome a fire at the Balmoral bar in the Scottish capital.

Twenty people, including a baby, were rescued from the flats above the pub and the Evening News is campaigning for Mr Williams to receive Queen’s Gallantry Medal in recognition of his bravery.

It is given for act of great bravery by citizens and occasionally serving military personnel.

The campaign has been backed by Mr Williamson’s family and friends, local politicians, residents and traders.

He was based in the Tollcross area of Edinburgh and local traders have placed copies of the Evening News’ petition on their counters to encourage the public to back the campaign.

Over 1,200 people have so far signed the daily’s petition.