Policeman up for bravery award after saving woman from drowning in River Severn

The brave actions of Sergeant David Steer will be recognised at the 21st Police Bravery Awards on July 14.

The awards honour and recognise police officers who performed outstanding acts of bravery while on or off duty.

Sergeant Steer's bravery came about after police received a report during the early hours that a young woman had entered the River Severn near Newtown.

The river was swollen and the woman was struggling to hold on to a branch to prevent herself from being swept away by the current.

In the pitch black, with only torchlight to see, Sergeant Steer entered the water and waded in chest deep and rescued the woman, carrying her to safety.

Once on the river bank the woman suffered a seizure and became unconscious, Sergeant Steer quickly carried her up the river bank to reach colleagues who were waiting to assist with her treatment.

Mark Bleasdale, chairman of Dyfed-Powys Police Federation, said Sergeant Steer displayed "tremendous courage" in saving the life of the young woman.

"Without fearing for his own safety, he bravely took decisive action to deal with the danger the woman was in," he said.

"This shows his dedication and professionalism to the service and his care for the public. That deserves the utmost recognition."

Stephen Mann, CEO of Police Mutual, said: "Police Mutual is extremely proud to sponsor the Police Bravery Awards, especially on this important milestone of 21 years.

"The awards recognise the courage of police officers who face extremely challenging situations every day to keep the public safe.

"Our ongoing, long-term commitment to support these awards reflects the incredible respect we have for the work of the police service."