Glen Edwards: Bucket List Wishes for a Hero Crane Operator

30 Second Takeaway

UK crane operator Glen Edwards, 67, who carried out a life-saving rescue during a high-rise fire in Reading in November 2023, is having his bucket list wishes supported by Berkshire charity Bucket List Wishes following a diagnosis of terminal cancer. Edwards’ actions, described by fire services as an “incredibly skilful rescue,” highlighted the critical role of crane operators in emergency situations beyond construction sites.

A crane rescue that saved a life

In November 2023, while operating a luffing jib tower crane at the Station Hill development in Reading, Glen Edwards became an unexpected first responder during a major building fire.

As flames engulfed the upper levels of the high-rise, a workman became trapped on the roof with no viable escape. Edwards made the split-second decision to use a man basket attached to the crane hook to reach the stranded worker. Operating under extreme conditions, Edwards manoeuvred the basket through smoke and heat, allowing the workman to climb inside and be safely lifted away from the fire.

Emergency services later confirmed that without the intervention, the trapped worker would almost certainly have died.

Recognition for an “incredibly skilful rescue”

Following the incident, Edwards was formally recognised by Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, which praised his actions as an “incredibly skilful rescue under extremely difficult circumstances.”

The event captured national attention, with Edwards being dubbed the “Bruce Willis of Reading” in local media a reflection of the calm, decisive action taken by a crane operator working well outside the boundaries of routine lifting operations.

A diagnosis that changed everything

At the time of the rescue, Edwards was already battling cancer. He later revealed that he had been diagnosed with tongue cancer earlier in 2023, which was treated with radiotherapy.

However, subsequent scans revealed a far more serious development.

Speaking on BBC Radio Berkshire, Edwards explained:“I was diagnosed with terminal cancer… after a full body scan, the consultant told me that I had cancer in my spine in five places. I have been undergoing chemotherapy. My cancer will never go — the doctors are trying to suppress it, but it has grown.”

Support from Bucket List Wishes

After learning that Edwards’ cancer had progressed, his wife Kate Edwards contacted

Bucket List Wishes, a Berkshire-based charity that supports terminally ill adults by helping fulfil practical needs and personal wishes.

The charity’s immediate priority has been to assist the Edwards family Glen, Kate, and their teenage son with a house move, removing a major source of stress during an already difficult period.

Practical help before personal wishes

Rather than focusing first on experiences or travel, Bucket List Wishes stepped in to address immediate, practical needs, organising:

• The family’s house move

• Carpets, flooring, and blinds

• Kitchen essentials, including an oven

• A new garden shed

• Food shopping and bedding vouchers

Once the family is settled, further wishes including a family photo shoot  will be arranged. The charity has also helped establish an online fundraising page to support additional requests.

“What an incredible thing to do for another human”

Gini Hackett, founder of Bucket List Wishes, said Edwards’ story left a lasting impression.

“I just remember watching his nomination and thinking, ‘Wow, he’s incredible what an incredible thing to do for another human,’”

she said.

"When Glen’s wife contacted us, we found it humbling. We’ve been emotional about this because we know how much of a hero Glen is.”

A reminder of the human side of lifting

Glen Edwards’ story is a powerful reminder that crane operators are often the last line of defence in complex, high-risk environments. His actions demonstrated not only technical skill, but judgement, courage, and humanityqualities that define the very best in the lifting industry.

As the crane community reflects on his career, Edwards is being supported not as a headline, but as a husband, father, and professional whose actions saved a life.

About Bucket List Wishes

Bucket List Wishes is a Berkshire-based charity dedicated to supporting terminally ill adults by fulfilling practical needs and meaningful wishes. The organisation focuses on reducing stress for families while helping individuals spend valuable time on what matters most.

Website: https://www.bucketlistwishes.org.uk