Little heroes pull boy, 9, from river (From Gazette Series)

Little heroes pull boy, 9, from river

A BOY of nine was dramatically saved from drowning in the River Cam thanks to the bravery of his brother and a friend.

Michael Phillips, from Dursley, was playing with a group of friends near the 1st Cam Scout Hut in Everlands, Cam, when he fell into the water on Sunday afternoon.

He was then pulled out by his brother Ben and friend Shane Jenkins, both ten.

Michael said: "I was trying to walk across the river on a log when I fell off and into a deep bit."

The river is at least 3ft deep in places and has a muddy bed.

Without a thought for themselves Ben swam and Shane waded to Michael's aid to get him back onto dry land.

Shane's contribution is all the more brave because he cannot swim himself. Ben then ran home to get his mother while Shane stayed with Michael.

The three boys, who all attend Dursley C of E Primary School, were none the worse for their experience but were more than a little muddy.

Michael added: "I was covered in mud up to my neck."

Boys being boys though, they have not been put off playing similar games again, although they will try to be more careful.

Michael said: "I will make sure I don't go falling off any more logs." His mother has written a letter of thanks to Shane for his part in helping to rescue his friend.