Special constable commended for saving drowning man

Jon Sayer gave no thought to his own safety when he and an 18-year-old passer-by heard screams coming from the River Calder at the junction of Halifax Road and Key Sike Lane, Todmorden, in the early hours of Saturday.

Using his skills as a qualified lifeguard, Mr Sayer and the teenager plunged in and were able to negotiate the swollen river that was pushing the man downstream and drag the man to the riverbank where colleagues were able to help.

Mr Sayer, a self-employed plumber and Scout leader, said: “I believe any officer in my position at that time would have done the same thing.

“It was all in a day’s work.”

The man, who has not been named, suffered a head injury and has received medical treatment.

Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Chris Hardern said: “Without a second thought for their own safety, these two men put their own lives at risk to help save the life of another. Thanks to their timely response, the man was rescued and is now receiving treatment.”

He added: “Special constables bring with them a variety of skills and experience when they dedicate their own time to help police support communities and make Calderdale a safer place to live and work.”

He said anyone interested in becoming a special constable should visit the recruitment section of the www.westyorkshire.police.uk website.