Outstanding bravery recognised at annual police awards

Sgt David Steer received his award from Sir Tom Winsor

A Dyfed-Powys police officer who saved a woman from drowning has been named the Wales winner at the annual Police Bravery Awards.

Sgt David Steer entered the swollen River Severn, near Newtown, after seeing a young woman clinging onto a branch and at risk of being swept away.

In the dark he waded in up to his chest and pulled the woman to safety.

Sgt Steer said he was "not a particularly strong swimmer," but "things just happen."

'Silly Billy'

Receiving his award in London, he said: "It's nice to be recognised.

"My wife called me a silly Billy afterwards but actually she's thrilled."

He added: "There are an awful lot of other winners out there that put things into perspective.

"I feel very humbled to be in their company."

The nominees in the Wales police force category were:

• North Wales Police: Sgt Iwan Owen (now retired) and PC Elwyn Williams entered a burning pub in Bangor to see if there were people trapped inside

• South Wales Police: Sgt Richard Lea saved a woman at risk of a brutal attack by her partner in Rhondda

• Gwent Police: PC Philip Williams detained and arrested a man who had stabbed his stepmother to death on an isolated farm in Monmouthshire

The Police Bravery Awards, now in their 21st year, recognise officers who perform outstanding acts of bravery while on or off duty.

Stephen Mann, chief executive of Police Mutual said they are proud to support "such an inspirational event" in the policing calendar.