Hero PC who jumped 30ft off bridge nominate for police bravery award

Dog handler PC Neal Skinner will be recognised at the Police Bravery Awards next month in London.

It comes after PC Skinner and another officer approached a man who was stood on a bridge over Langstone Harbour at Hayling Island threatening to jump.

PC Skinner said: ‘I told him that if he jumped, I was going to jump in after him. He said he didn’t want me to jump in, but I said it wasn’t negotiable because that was my job.”

After 40 minutes the man jumped, followed by PC Skinner who swam after the man being dragged by a strong current.

The officer on the shore threw a life ring as PC Skinner grabbed the man.

PC Skinner said: ‘I don’t feel like a hero. I’m sure every police officer in my situation would have done the same.’

John Apter, chairman of Hampshire Police Federation said: ‘PC Skinner showed great courage and compassion and acted instinctively to help another.’

Olivia Pinkney, chief constable of Hampshire Constabulary, added: ‘PC Skinner demonstrated great bravery. His selfless actions resulted in the life of another being saved.

‘This was an act of courage, professionalism and dedication, I am so proud of Neal.’