Heroic officers have been nominated for a national award after plunging into the sea to rescue two stranded youngsters.

Workington man, PC Colin Dunne, and PC Alun Masters, from Kendal Division, jumped to action back in 2018 when reports came in that children had been spotted clinging to rocks near the disused Maryport Lighthouse.

Two 12-year-old girls were rescued from the life-threatening situation by the officers, as they swam back to shore with the scared youngsters in-tow.

Despite being in the water for some time, the girls only suffered minor hyperthermia and were treated by waiting ambulance crews.

And now the devoted officers have been recognised for their actions, being nominated for The National Police Bravery Awards, which honour those across England and Wales who have performed outstanding acts of bravery.

Cumbria Police Federation chairman, Paul Williams, said the Federation was proud of what the officers did that day.

“Police officers are much more than crime fighters and this incident once again showed our Bobbies at their best," he said.

"Colin and Alun showed real fast thinking and in the best traditions of Cumbria Police put their safety at risk to rescue these girls.

“The youngsters were terrified, and the officers had to show great bravery and determination to get them down off those rocks and to safety.

"They prevented a potentially tragic incident [and] we are very proud of them.”

As nominees, Colin and Alun will attend an awards ceremony in London in July 2021, with the 25th National Police Bravery Awards – sponsored by Police Mutual – being cancelled due to the pandemic.

John Apter, national chairman of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said: “We are incredibly proud of all the nominees from across England and Wales.

"The actions of these courageous officers provide a small snapshot of the amazing work our colleagues carry out day in and day out."

He continued: “What heroes PC Colin Dunne and PC Alun Masters are.

"You never know what you are going to encounter when you are a police officer. What the call will be. You just have to be ready to react and do your best.

"That’s what this fantastic pair did. And then some."

The proud chairman added: “As a Police Federation, we wanted to make sure these brave officers received the recognition they deserve in the year their actions were meant to be celebrated.

"And we look forward to seeing them all in person – and revealing regional and national winners – when the time is right in 2021.”

John Perks, chief executive officer of Police Mutual, said: “Police Mutual is, as always, proud to be supporting the National Police Bravery Awards in its 25th anniversary year.

"Despite having to postpone the original ceremony, the officers’ courage has never been forgotten – they all showed commitment to keeping the public safe in the most demanding of circumstances.

“We very much look forward to meeting all the nominated officers in July 2021 for the ceremony, and our chance to give our thanks in person.”