Police officer praised for sea rescue

A police officer from Southend is being praised for his potentially life-saving actions after a boy got into into difficulty in the sea off Southend.

Officers had been on routine patrol near Adventure Island just before 3pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012 when they saw a boy struggling in the water.

Pc Martin Knights immediately stripped off his uniform, jumped into the water and swam about 200 metres to rescue the 13-year-old.

The 46-year-old officer brought the boy back to shore where he was checked over by paramedics before being reunited with his step-mother.

Pc Knights said: "I was on patrol with a special constable colleague when we saw the boy waving around in the water. I quickly stripped off, ran down the beach and into the water.

"The boy’s step-mum was really grateful when I brought him back to shore. She hugged me afterwards. It’s nice when we, the police, are appreciated for our work."

The mother and child had travelled to Southend for a day out from their home in Middlesex.

Sgt Ash Holland said: "I watched the whole incident on CCTV and have no doubt that, if it were not for the quick thinking and brave actions of Martin, then the boy may not be alive today. The force will look to formally recognise Martin’s actions.”