A Falmouth diver has had his bravery recognised after he tried to save a drowning woman trapped in a submerged car.
Matt Vernon was honoured for his attempts to rescue Ann Pewter, aged 74, who became trapped in a car that rolled into the River Fal from the King Harry Ferry slipway on March 20.
The free diver met with watchkeeping staff at the Falmouth Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, who coordinated the rescue efforts, and was presented with a formal letter of appreciation from chief coastguard Peter Dymond.
“This was a selfless and courageous attempt by Matt to rescue the occupant of the submerged vehicle and in such deep cold water with poor visibility, required considerable physical exertion,” Mr Dymond said.
“Her Majesty’s Coastguard hereby expresses its sincere appreciation and gratitude to Matt for his outstanding effort, determination and fortitude in attempting to save the life of the unfortunate occupant of the vehicle."
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