12:55pm Friday 25th June 2010
By Sian Davies
A HAMPSHIRE police officer has been nominated for a bravery award for the part he played in trying to rescue a drowning family while off duty.
PC Nick Whitehouse was enjoying a day at Lepe beach in 2007 with his own family when he spotted a group of people who appeared to be in difficulty about 50m out to sea.
Without thinking PC Whitehouse dashed into the water despite the fact he was not a strong swimmer in an effort to help.
As reported at the time Eddy Moore, 43, was trying desperately to rescue his twoy e a r - o l d g r a n d daughter Keely after she had got into trouble with the strong tides.
He was holding the toddler above his head, to keep her above the water, but as PC Whitehouse got nearer he disappeared under the water and by the time the officer found him, Mr Moore was lying face down in the sea.
Despite the best efforts of PC Whitehouse who brought him back to shore, and other rescuers Mr Moore from Southampton could not be resuscitated, but his efforts did save the life of his grandaughter for which he was heralded a hero.
Now PC Whitehouse and another off-duty police officer from the Metropolitan force who also helped that day, have been nominated for the National Police Bravery awards.
PC Whitehouse who is based in Alton, said: “I acted instinctively when I realised somebody needed help, I’m not the most confident of swimmers but I couldn’t stand by and do nothing. To be nominated by the Police Federation for such an award is an honour”
Chairman of Hampshire Police Federation, John Apter, said: “PC Whitehouse was off duty with his family when he became aware of the group in difficulty. He acted in a selfless way, putting himself at risk for the benefit of others.
PC Whitehouse is a credit to himself and Hampshire Constabulary.”
The Chief Constable of Hampshire Constabulary Alex Marshall also paid tribute to his actions, he said: “PC Whitehouse put himself at risk to try and save others, his nomination is strongly supported by me and Hampshire Constabulary.”
The awards ceremony will take place next month at The Dorchester Hotel in London.
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