Man rescues girl from Derry river

A man was hailed as a hero today after he plunged into the cold waters of the River Bann in Co Derry to save the life of a teenage girl who had fallen from a bridge.

The rescued 16-year-old was later being treated in hospital after her long fall from the Sandelford Bridge in Coleraine at lunchtime.

Police praised two members of the public who, with the assistance of a passing police patrol, managed to get the girl to safety.

Inspector Stephen McPeak said everyone involved deserved great credit for the part they played in the rescue, but singled out one man.

He said: "Particular praise must go to one member of the public who showed great courage by entering the cold and fast flowing river, without thought for his own safety and who, using a lifejacket he had in his car, was able to swim to the girl and save her life.

"Had it not been for this man's quick thinking and selfless actions, there is no doubt that we would be facing a tragedy here today."