Grays: Smudge Saves River Fall Man

A man who nearly froze to death after falling into a river in Essex has told how he was saved - thanks to his pet dog.

Michael Dabbs, 63, spent more than two hours trapped in the cold river off Churchill Road in Grays.

But, in scenes reminiscent of television series Lassie, his loyal Springer Spaniel Smudge came to his aid. Smudge attracted the attention of passer-by Tony Paxton who dialled 999.

Police then arrived to pull Mr Dabbs free. Mr Dabbs, who was trying to rescue his other spaniel, Ben, spent about six hours in hospital after the rescue.

He said: "The trouble started when Ben fell into the river and couldn't get out. I went after him and found I couldn't get out. I didn't realise at the time just how serious it was.

"I am extremely grateful to everyone involved and reckon the police officers did a really good job. Smudge did a good job too. He could have run off but Springers are clever dogs."

Mr Paxton was crossing the bridge when a dog ran in front of him.

He said: "I made a fuss of him because he seemed distressed. Because he had a lead on I was fearful that its owner might be in trouble. Then I heard Mr Dabbs's weak calls from help.

"He was lucky. This road is normally quiet and on that cold and dark Friday evening no one else was about."

Pcs Karen Pownall and Martin Swain quickly found Mr Dabbs. After they rescued him, a paramedic warned that Mr Dabbs' body temperature was critically low and he was rushed to Basildon Hospital.

East of England Ambulance Service spokesman Gary Sanderson said: "Both officers' quick-thinking and rapid intervention has no doubt saved this man's life. Well done to both of them."