Hero Copper Uses Boating Skills to Save Man from Freezing Thames
A quick-thinking police officer has been hailed a hero after rescuing a distressed man from the River Thames using skills learned outside the force.
Distress Call Near Portsmouth Road
Police were alerted at 2.13am on Thursday, 6 August to a man struggling to stay afloat near Portsmouth Road in Kingston. With no specialist rescue teams close by, officers had to act fast.
Dangerous Rescue in Pitch Black
Despite the warm weather, the Thames water was icy cold, and the rescue was made tougher by near-total darkness. Attempts to calm the man from the shore failed as he began drifting downstream, panic visible in his movements.
PC Martis-Jones’ Lifesaving Skills Come to the Fore
PC Tom Martis-Jones from the Met’s South West Command Unit, a qualified powerboat driver who’s sailed and swum in the Thames since age 12, sprang into action. He and his colleagues PC Mockett and PC Moore secured a powerboat from a nearby sailing club and launched a daring rescue.
PC Martis-Jones said: “It was a high-risk situation that could have ended tragically. I’d urge anyone struggling in water to stay calm, lean back, and float until help arrives.”
Man Makes Full Recovery
The rescued man was treated by London Ambulance Service paramedics and thankfully made a full recovery. Chief Superintendent Sally Benatar praised the officers:
“This shows the risks our officers take every day to keep Londoners safe. I’m incredibly proud of those involved—their quick thinking likely saved a life.”
