A Wimborne man has received a Chief Fire Officer’s commendation for his courageous actions after he rescued a woman from the River Stour last June.
Edward Bryant was walking his dog, Reggie, when the pet became agitated and drew his attention to the woman being in the water.
After calling a neighbour to bring a ladder to the scene, and knowing that firefighters were on their way to help, Edward entered the river and helped the woman to get back onto the bank.
He was presented with the commendation by Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell at the annual awards of Dorset and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service.
Mandy Blackford and Liz Watts, from Wiltshire, were also commended for rescuing an elderly lady from her smoke-filled flat last November.
Ben Ansell said: “These commendations mark the appreciation of the Chief Fire Officer of meritorious conduct, that is above and beyond the call of duty, by staff, volunteers, partners or members of the public.
“Every year, I receive a number of nominations, and I was delighted to formally recognise Mandy, Liz and Edward for their swift and courageous actions.
“Without them, I have no doubt that two lives could have been lost.”