A CARPENTER who jumped into the North Sea to rescue a drowning woman has been praised by emergency services for saving her life.
Scott Mayson, of Galleywood, had been walking along the coastline at Clacton on Thursday when he heard the screams of a woman pleading for help.
The 42-year-old didn't think twice before throwing his bag and shoes to one side, and jumping into the water after her – a decision which Essex police and coastguards agree undoubtedly saved the victim's life as she battled the rough waters.
"I was in Clacton on holiday and spending a few days with my friend Steve, we were simply heading back from a walk along the coast when I heard a voice screaming for help," said Scott.
"I immediately threw down my rucksack, and took off my flip flops so I could swim out after her. The water was quite choppy and she kept taking mouthfuls of water down as she was distressed and panicking.
"At first I tried to help her back to the shore but then it dawned on me just how far out from land we were so I just tried to keep her calm until a boat arrived."
Exhausted and shaking with fear, but alive thanks to Scott's quick thinking, the woman was pulled into a rescue vehicle and treated for shock back on dry land.
"She came over briefly and thanked me for helping her, which meant a lot as I know there is nothing worse than being out in the water alone and scared," added the father-of-one.
"My first thought when I heard the screams was just that she must be frightened out of her life so I didn't think twice about it, someone was in trouble.
"I haven't actually swum any distance for a long time but my father's training from our childhood just kicked in – he had taught me diving and that the most important thing was to relax in the water.
"I just thought about my daughter, and how I would feel if anything was to happen to her."
A spokesperson from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: "It's almost certain that this passer-by saved the woman's life but he did risk his own by going in the water to save her.
"We want people to have fun and enjoy our coast but to do this we all need to respect the power of the sea.
"HM Coastguard recommends that you don't attempt to rescue someone you see in difficulty in the water, instead call 999 immediately and ask for the coastguard.
"But if you do make the decision to attempt a rescue, we would always advise taking something into the water with you to aid your floatation."
