A HERO dad who saved two children from drowning in a lake is in the running for a Brave Britons award.

Shaun Bowness, of Bodfari, has reached the final 10 selection stage in the Amplifon Awards for Brave Britons 2022 Act Of Courage category.

 

Shaun Bowness of Bodfari. Image: Shaun Bowness/Bodfari

Shaun Bowness of Bodfari. Image: Shaun Bowness/Bodfari

 

The 28-year-old dad, who was on a day out with his family, was ready to leave Marine Lake, Rhyl, with his wife Katie and seven-year-old son Ollie, when they heard the two young girls’ screams.

They had both slipped and fallen in after one tried to help the other out of the lake.

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Fortunately for them, taxi driver Shaun had qualified as a lifeguard some years earlier.

Shaun, still fully clothed, went into the freezing water made his way to the girls before pushing them both to the side.

 

Marine Lake, Rhyl.

Marine Lake, Rhyl.

 

During the rescue in April last year both Shaun and one of the girls were stung by jelly fish.

Shaun reached the selection stage out of about 50 nominations chosen by the public from around the UK.

Thrilled to be nominated, Shaun told the Journal: "Water is dangerous and more awareness of the risks water and what's beneath it pose needs to be raised.

"Things could have gone terribly wrong for a number of reasons that day but with having the right training and instinct a fatal accident had been avoided.

"I believe in a higher power and luckily for whatever reasons I was in the right place at the right time.

"If more people could educate themselves on water safety before heading out with their children and also adults enjoying the water for themselves, it will save a life!"

Shaun added: "If I could also mention www.riverandseasense.com. Debbie Turnbull is the lady who runs it and has been amazing at raising awareness since the loss of her son. I try to do everything I can to encourage others on water safety and Debbie is much further ahead than I will ever be."

Four finalists will be selected in each category and the winner will be announced at an awards ceremony on Tuesday, October 11.

Falklands War hero Simon Weston chairs the judging panel and BBC TV and radio presenter Rachel Burden will make the awards.