Police honoured for saving man from cliff plunge

The man had already fallen 20ft down the drop near Derbyshire Lane in Meersbrook, Sheffield, when his life was almost certainly saved by the efforts of Pc David Mason and Pc Lee Corker.

The pair managed to safely reach and stabilise the man until fire crews arrived at the scene with specialist rescue equipment.

The police officers’ swift intervention has been credited with preventing the man from falling to the ground and suffering what would almost certainly have been fatal injuries.

Pc Corker said: “It was very much a joint effort and I’m glad we arrived when we did to be able to save this man. When we saw him we just knew we had to get to him quickly.

“He was injured and extremely frightened but thankfully, with the help of the fire crews, we got him out safely.”

Pc Mason said: “I am really pleased to be receiving this special award, it was a real team effort during a very difficult situation.”

Fire officers say the pair’s bravery and professionalism at the scene meant fire crews were able to perform a successful rescue.

Now the two police officers have been awarded a Chief Fire Officer’s Commendation – the highest fire service award for displaying life-saving bravery in South Yorkshire.

They were presented with their certificates at a formal ceremony in front of fire crews, family and friends at South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue’s central fire station.

Temporary chief fire officer Jamie Courtney said: “It’s a great honour to recognise the bravery of these two police officers David and Lee, when faced with the situation they came across, had to make a split second decision which ultimately helped save this man’s life.”

The rescue happened on March 22 last year.