JUST over 50 YEARS ago a man from Weymouth who rescued a drowning father was awarded the Royal Humane Society’s Resuscitation Certificate.

Mr Harry Hugh Skevington was presented the award by the Mayor of Weymouth, Mr Walker Robinson, on January 15, 1970.

The Echo reported that Mr Skevington helped revive the man, who was found lying face down in the water at Laxey Beach, Isle of Man, in July 1969.

John Sheridan, 44, had been seen standing near the water’s edge trying to coax his 10-year-old daughter into the sea. He was later found unconscious with a 'barely perceptible pulse'.

According to the Echo: “Mr Skevington waded into the sea and pulled Mr Sheridan out, before starting resuscitation. He was joined by two police officers who, with him, took turns in attempting to restore breathing. This was carried out for almost half an hour before an oxygen-equipped ambulance arrived and took Mr Sheridan to hospital.”

Mr Skevington received the award before the meeting of Weymouth Town Council began.

The Royal Humane Society is a British charity which promotes lifesaving intervention. It was founded in England in 1774, and grants awards for acts of bravery.