Hero Cops Save Woman from Freezing North Sea – Win National Honour
Two student officers have been hailed heroes after rescuing a vulnerable woman who waded into the icy North Sea. PCs Alexandra Rackstraw and Andrew Curtis received a prestigious Royal Humane Society Testimonial for their quick-thinking bravery in South Shields.
Race Against Time on South Shields Seafront
Back in October, PC Rackstraw, 27, and PC Curtis, 22, joined a search team hunting for a missing woman believed to be in mental distress. The pair tracked her movements via CCTV and were the first to spot her standing waist-deep in the freezing waves amid choppy conditions.
Without hesitation, the brave officers plunged into the sea to bring the woman safely ashore. Soaked through and shivering, they quickly dried off and carried on with their shift — proving dedication to their duty.
Officers Praise Teamwork and Humility
“I’m just pleased that the woman is OK,” PC Rackstraw said. “Andrew and I just did what anybody would have done. It was some outstanding teamwork that led to a positive outcome.”
PC Curtis added, “I joined the police to make a positive difference. We’re just glad we could help — it was fast-moving, but we ensured she got the care she needed. We don’t work for awards, but I’m humbled to receive the Testimonial.”
Chief Superintendent Salutes Bravery
Chief Superintendent Sarah Pitt praised the pair’s courage: “Both officers showed outstanding bravery by wading chest-high into the sea to protect a vulnerable member of the public. They embody the very best of Northumbria Police and fully deserve this prestigious honour.”
The Royal Humane Society, founded in 1774, awards medals and testimonials for lifesaving bravery and resuscitations – making this recognition a badge of true heroism.
