FOUR young heroes who rescued a little boy from the River Mersey have been rewarded for their bravery.

Matthew Lee, aged 13, Scott Chriscoli, aged 13, Julie Marsh, aged 14 and 12-year-old Toni Dawson have been presented with The Mayor's Celebration of Achievement Award to commemorate their daring actions.

The four friends pulled little Oliver Lea to safety on Warrington Walking Day after he toppled into the river's murky depths near Mersey Walk, Latchford. They were playing football nearby when the accident happened. Matthew dived into the water and swam to the struggling youngster, while Scott, Julie and Toni waited in the shallows to pull him to safety.

Mayor of Warrington, Councillor Tom Swift, heard of the youngsters' bravery and thought they should be honoured.

"I think what they did was outstanding," said Clr Swift.

"I had a similar experience when I was a child and I think they did very well. The River Mersey can be a very dangerous river and they told me they just jumped in without thinking. They were very brave."

The Celebration of Achievement Awards were introduced by last year's Mayor Clr Albert Clemow. They are given to young people who perform exceptionally well at school or in sport, who overcome disabilities or who make an outstanding effort to help others.

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