by Hayley Robinson

Four firefighters have been recognised for the role they played in a water rescue.

Red Watch were returning to Sittingbourne fire station after helping tackle a fire in Woodchurch, near Ashford, when they noticed police officers and a crowd of onlookers close to one of the crossings over the River Medway in Maidstone.

After stopping to investigate, they discovered a 19-year-old man struggling in the river and a member of the public about to jump in to rescue him.

The team leapt into action and using a 60m throw line from the engine, they were able to pull the man to safety.

Once on the shore, the crew administered first aid until paramedics arrived.

The incident happened during the early hours of June 5.

In recognition of their team work and professionalism, a certificate of congratulations was presented to watch manager Neil Ryder, crew manager, Mat Barney, and firefighter Jim Green during a ceremony at the Oakwood House Hotel, Maidstone, last Wednesday.

Firefighter Peter Judd, who was also involved in the rescue, was unable to attend.

Mr Green, who was driving that day, said: "We happened to be in the right place, at the right time really and if the other bloke had jumped in then we would have had two people to rescue.

"I've done 32 years of service and this is the first certificate I've had in my career so I'm really pleased. It's not often we get a pat on the back."

The crew plans to frame the certificate and put it on display at the fire station in St Michael's Road.