AN HEROIC police officer jumped to the rescue and saved a youngster from drowning after spotting they were in trouble.

PC Lewis Aleta was conducting patrols in Castle Park along with his colleagues on Monday when they spotted a group of teenagers had gone for a dip in the River Colne to cool down in the sweltering temperatures.

However, it quickly became clear one of them was struggling and could not swim.

PC Aleta bravely hurled himself in and dragged them towards the side where his fellow officers were waiting and were able to haul them to safety.

The team were then able to give advice to the group about the potential dangers of swimming in the river and give the casualty first aid.

Fortunately, they did not require hospital treatment.

PC Aleta, 29, said: “I heard the splashing and shouting, and I thought are they messing about or is it serious?

“When I saw a girl and boy go under, I jumped in.

“We took the boy to the riverbank. He was shaken but when he caught his breath, after about five or ten minutes he was fine.

“I knew the water was deep but even I was surprised how deep it was because when I jumped in, I couldn’t touch the bottom.”

Colchester’s district commander Chief Insp Rob Huddleston hailed the officer and said it was one of the most heroic things an officer could ever do.

“Lewis acted in the true tradition of policing, putting others before himself. His quick thinking and brave actions undoubtedly saved this young man's life.

“As police officers in the community we are here to help anyone and will always do our best to keep you safe.”

Colchester Council public safety boss Mike Lilley (Lab) also praised the officer but warned people should not be swimming in Middle Mill.

He said: “We are looking urgently at what more can be done to prevent people entering the water at this spot, but in the meantime, I would advise people not to swim or paddle there.

“Apart from the obvious hazard of swimming close to a weir, rivers and open water seldom get warm in this country, even during a summer heat wave.

“And objects under the water, which may be unseen from the riverbank, can trap or injure swimmers. There are also potential health risks from swimming in lakes and rivers, such as Weil’s disease.

“Please be sensible and do not risk your own safety or the safety of others by trying to swim or paddle at Middle Mill.”