Hampshire Hero PC Dives Into Icy Waters to Save Man
PC Neal Skinner’s quick thinking and bravery have earned him a national honour. The Hampshire police dog handler leapt from Langstone Bridge after a man plunged into freezing, fast-flowing waters below.
Brave Dive into Deadly Waters
The drama unfolded in December 2015 during PC Skinner’s evening shift. He was first on the scene, talking to a distressed man who was dangerously perched over the bridge railings. Suddenly, the man lost his balance and fell 30 feet into the icy tidal waters.
Risking It All to Save a Life
Without hesitation, PC Skinner jumped straight in after him. Battling the strong currents that dragged the man further away, the officer grabbed him and hauled him towards a life ring. Thanks to his heroic effort, they reached the Langstone Sailing Club slipway where the man was rushed to hospital.
Honoured for Heroism
For his fearless and lifesaving actions, PC Skinner has been awarded the Royal Humane Society Bronze Medal – a fitting tribute to his courage under pressure.
