A WiIRRAL man rescued during an incident on the River Mersey in which his mother died has met RNLI rescuers who saved him.
Christine Robinson, 57, from Eastham tragically lost her life after being swept into the river off Kings Parade in New Brighton on July 6, 2020.
She had been walking her pet dog, with son Niall Robinson, when the dog was swept into the river while on a slipway. Niall then got into difficulty while trying to reach the dog. Christine had gone in to the water to try to help, but was swept away.
Niall and the dog were rescued from the water during a major operation involving the RNLI, Coastguard, Merseyside Police and North West Ambulance Service.
Mrs Robinson, originally from the North East and a pharmacy technician at Boots in Chester, was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. A post-mortem last April concluded the cause of death as drowning.
The RNLI volunteers from New Brighton and an RNLI lifeguard who went to the family's rescue were awarded with a Merseyside Police Chief Constable's commendation in recognition of their actions.
The commendation is awarded to RNLI helm, Michael Stannard, crew members Oz Ramsey, Emily Craven and Thomas McGinn along with RNLI lifeguard senior Lifeguard Cameron Jacobie.
The event was attended by Mr Robinson, who was rescued by the lifeboat and partner Coral. It was the first time they had come face to face with the crew since the rescue.
He said: "Meeting the RNLI crew and lifeguards for the first time was an emotional occasion, but something I've wanted to do for a long time. I will forever be in their debt.
"The RNLI do such an incredible job and the New Brighton volunteers should be so very proud of what they did that day in such horrendous conditions.
"I'm so pleased they are receiving this recognition from Merseyside Police, which is so very well deserved."
Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy, said: "The bravery shown by the lifeguard and crew of the New Brighton RNLI in that tragic incident was commendable.
"The circumstances and level of risk made it uncertain whether a rescue attempt would even be possible. Nevertheless, they persevered, selflessly putting themselves in danger and sustaining injuries in their attempt to preserve life.
"I hope that receiving a Chief Constable’s Commendation will remind to them how valued they are, not just by Merseyside Police, but by the whole community.
"Their daily vigilance keeps all of us who enjoy Merseyside’s coastline safer, and I am proud to work in partnership with an organisation made up such courageous individuals."
Michael Stannard was also recently presented with RNLI charity’s Bronze Gallantry Medal at St James’ Palace, London by HRH the Duke of Kent for his part in the rescue.
Framed Letters of Appreciation and a Medal Service Certificate were presented to RNLI New Brighton volunteers in recognition of the skill, determination and courage demonstrated.
Ian Thornton, RNLI New Brighton Lifeboat Operations Manager said: "This commendation is an honour for the New Brighton crew and the lifeguards who went to offer assistance, it is heartening for us to be recognised in this way.
"However, this was a tragic incident, and our thoughts remain with the family that were involved in this very difficult service.
"As a crew, the volunteers always launch in the aim to save everyone; unfortunately, this isn’t always possible.
"The team of RNLI New Brighton are extremely proud of all our team. Without doubt, they saved the lives of the male casualty and the dog that day."
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