Hero officers to get top lifesaving award
Published: February 26, 2007
Two hero policemen who braved stormy seas in the middle of the night to dramatically rescue a drowning woman are to receive top lifesaving awards.
Inspector Pete Meteau and PC Chris Fryer, both of Weymouth police, stripped off before battling huge waves to reach the woman, who was struggling to keep afloat 100 metres from the shore.
The woman, 32, who waded into the sea off Weymouth beach in her pyjamas, initially resisted attempts at being rescued and struggled with the two officers before being towed to safety.
The pair’s efforts last October were recognised at top level today when it was announced they would receive the Royal Humane Society Testimonials on Vellum, approved by the society’s president Princess Alexandra.
Insp Meteau, 50, who is in charge of policing the town centre, is captain of the Dorset Police Lifesaving Team.
He said after the rescue last year: “Conditions were rough but the woman was in trouble and I was just doing my job.
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“I do train for just this sort of incident with the lifesaving team, so it is just another way to help keep Weymouth as safe as possible.”
It will be the second time Insp Meteau will receive a Royal Humane Society award.
In 1999 he saved the life of a drunken man who jumped off Bournemouth Pier.
This latest drama unfolded when the Swindon woman, who had been staying in a guesthouse, was caught on CCTV walking into the sea just after midnight on October 1, 2006. Insp Meteau and PC Fryer were among the first officers on scene.
Police dog handler PC Fryer, 44, said: “When I arrived Pete was already swimming out.
“It was a dark and stormy night, but I didn’t hesitate. We took the woman’s arms and brought her back to shore. Pete and I are both good swimmers so the woman couldn’t have been in better hands.
“Afterwards I got changed and went back on duty.”
He added: “It was a difficult rescue but I’m glad I did it. I would do it again.”
The woman was released to her family after being treated in hospital.
The Royal Humane Society’s secretary, Major General David Pennefather, said: “Both police officers quickly recognised the need for immediate action and did not shirk from the job - they acted selflessly and without hesitation.
“They are a credit to the force and thoroughly deserve their awards.”
The awards, which were made on the recommendation of Dorset Police, will be presented later.
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