A POLICEMAN who jumped into an icy river to rescue a suicidal man has received a bravery award for his actions.

PC Scott Ward, of Kidderminster Police, leapt into action after Halesowen man Anthony Vickers jumped into the River Severn off Bewdley Bridge at Severnside South.

The 40-year-old officer dived in and swam to the middle of the river to grab Mr Vickers and then battled with colleagues and paramedics to resuscitate him but he was pronounced dead at the scene on January 20.

Despite the sad ending to the rescue bid, PC Ward was proud to receive his award at Kidderminster Police Station.

After receiving a bravery certificate from West Mercia Police chief constable Peter Hampson and the Royal Lifesaving Society's regional co-ordinator Anne Woodward, a modest PC Ward paid tribute to the help of his colleagues.

He said: "We had all received training drills for water rescue and everybody knew what to do. I was so cold some colleagues had to pull me from the water because, ironically, I hate deep water and I'm no great swimmer.

"This tragic episode highlights the value of the rescue equipment which was put in place on the riverside after the November floods. It is essential in an emergency and helped me in my rescue bid."