A HEROIC Frome special constable who rescued a man from drowning in the freezing temperatures of the Frome River has been given one of the top life saving awards in the country.
Volunteer special Steve Cook, who is a member of the Frome Response unit, will receive a Testimonial on Parchment from the Royal Humane Society Awards, which is reserved for people who risk their own lives to save another.
SC Cook was on patrol in North Parade in January, when a call came across the radio that a man had fallen into the river next to the Cheese and Grain, in the Market Yard car park at around midnight.
Initially he struggled to see the man as it was so dark but when he made his way down the five-metre riverbank he heard muffled sounds and caught sight of the man, who was face down in the water by this time.
At the tome SC Cook said: "The water was very cold but I didn't notice at the time and waded over to him.
"His clothes were completely saturated with water and what with this and his weight made it very difficult to hold him up in this position without his help.
"I knew I had to get him out of the water as I was not sure exactly how long he had been there and that hypothermia would set in if not already."
It took SC Cook two attempts to get the man onto the bank and into the recovery position.
Minutes later more police officers and paramedics arrived at the scene to help.
The man was rushed to Bath's Royal United Hospital but was allowed home the following day.
SC Cook recently met the man who he rescued and said it was an emotional moment for them both.
He said: "The man was very thankful and he told me without my help he would have died, but I was just doing my job and I like to think anyone else would do the same in that situation."
SC Cook said he was honoured to be given the RHS award.
He said: "I am very honoured and humbled to hear I have won the award.
"I am very pleased to receive it, it really is the cherry on the cake."
SC Cook has already won the Sandy Padgett Award and the District Commissioner Award for bravery.
Mendip Inspector Mark Nicholson said: "This is yet another accolade for Special Constable Cook and is well-deserved. He acted instinctively and with no regard for his own safety and prevented what could have been a tragedy.
"The man he rescued recently asked to meet Steve to thank him personally and I know that meant a great deal to both of them. We're very proud of Steve and what he did that day."
SC Cook will be presented with his award later this year.
The Royal Humane Society presents testimonials, certificates and medals throughout the year for acts of bravery.
