Hero Cop Dives Into Deadly River Twice to Save Lives
PC Nick Lewis pulled off two incredible river rescues, drawing on his swim squad skills to save a 12-year-old girl and a distressed woman from the treacherous River Trent. His quick thinking and bravery earned him the prestigious PC Ged Walker Award at Nottinghamshire Police’s annual ceremony.
Dangerous Rescue in Icy Currents
In the first heart-stopping incident, the fast-flowing River Trent’s deadly undercurrents threatened a young girl struggling to stay afloat. Wearing thick, heavy clothing, she was fighting for her life. Without hesitation, PC Lewis plunged into the torrent, battling the fierce current to swim her safely to shore.
Second Life-Saving Swim
Just two months later, PC Lewis faced another perilous challenge. A woman had deliberately entered the river in a suicide attempt. Again, Lewis was first on scene. Despite the woman’s desperate resistance, he fought through to drag her to safety.
“I’m really proud to win the Ged Walker Award,” Lewis said. “It means a lot personally as I used to swim with Ged’s kids. Ged means so much to everyone at Nottinghamshire Police. This award made my day and put a massive smile on my face.”
What is the PC Ged Walker Award?
The award honours the memory of PC Ged Walker, killed in the line of duty in 2003. It recognises officers who show exceptional courage and dedication. This year, three officers received the award: PC Lewis, Sergeant Dan Griffin, and PC Amy Pannell.
Knife Attack Heroics by Griffin and Pannell
Sergeant Griffin and PC Pannell were also celebrated for bravery. While on a voluntary patrol after shift, they confronted two cannabis smokers. One offender violently attacked Griffin with a knife, stabbing him four times, including twice in the chest. Despite his wounds, Griffin tackled and detained the attacker.
PC Pannell jumped into the fray without hesitation, applying first aid to Griffin and restraining the assailant until backup arrived. Griffin was rushed to hospital while the attacker is now behind bars.
Deputy Chief Constable Steve Cooper said, “Just like PC Ged Walker, these officers were willing to risk everything to keep the public safe. We are immensely proud of them.”
The Tragic Ged Walker Story
On 7 January 2003, PC Ged Walker was responding to a stolen car report in Nottingham when he faced a violent offender. The suspect fled, hiding before stealing a taxi. Ged tried to detain him but was dragged when the suspect sped off at 30mph, sustaining fatal head injuries.
The award that now bears his name celebrates the ultimate sacrifice Ged made and the courage of officers who follow in his footsteps.
