An Asda worker has been praised as a hero after helping to save a man who had fallen into a river.

Dan had been at the homeware and clothing store in St Peter's Street, Maidstone, when he leapt into action to help.

He had spotted the man drop into the River Medway behind the shop and threw a life ring for him to hold onto.

Dan held the float rope tight until the fire service arrived, with recent bad weather causing the river to flow fast.

He said: "The rope had actually cut into my hands and I had burns too because I was holding on so hard.

“If I'd had let go, then it would have been it.”

Firefighters attended shortly afterwards where they used a telescopic ladder to help rescue the man.

Dan added: “Thankfully he had some strength left to climb out of the river and onto the ladder.

"I don't think what I did was heroic – anyone would have done the same.

“It's human nature to help others. I was at the right place at the right time."

Store manager Paul praised the worker’s actions.

He said: "We are all so very proud of Dan. He really is a hero."