THE WOMAN saved from drowning in her submerged car by three West Mercia Police Federation members near Pershore said she was ‘thrilled’ to see her rescuers win national bravery awards.
Having found out PC Tom Simmonds, Sergeant Lee Baker and Sergeant Shannon Murphy had won the Region 3 Award, Annie Nisbet said she was ‘absolutely delighted’.
“I was overjoyed to hear they had won,” she said. “As I have previously said, I believe there cannot be enough recognition for what they did for me that day. It is marvellous to know their courage has been acknowledged.”
The three officers were nominated for the award after pulling Annie out of her car as it rapidly sank in floodwater at a ford in Bow Brook between Pershore and Drakes Broughton last year. Annie had stopped before the swamped ford and intended to reverse away when her car was swept up by water.
Annie added: “Not only were they outrageously brave at the expense of their own lives, but I wanted to bring to light the level of courage and dedication shown by these officers.
“There needs to be more positive stories about the police in the news. I would love the community to hear this story.”
She also congratulated the officers on their awards.
“You’re an inspiration to the public you serve, to your families – and to me. This accolade is a reflection of your excellence in your field,” Annie said.
Prior to their award win, the officer trio were invited to 10 Downing Street for an exclusive reception held by new Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and policing minister Dame Diana Johnson DBE. Sergeant Lee Baker and PC Thomas Simmonds attended on behalf of their fellow nominee sergeant Shannon Murphy who could not attend due to other commitments.
