A hero police officer who risked his own life to rescue a woman stuck in the mud has been commended.

Sgt Benjamin Felton, from Maldon, was commended for his quick-thinking and bravery that helped him to save a woman’s life.

In February 2017, Sgt Felton was called to an incident in Maldon where a woman was stuck in the mud in a river.

The woman had fallen off a pontoon and got stuck in the River Blackwater near to Downs Road.

Without hesitation, Sgt Felton entered the water, putting himself in danger and started to dig out the mud trapping the woman.

He carried on digging until the arrival the fire service and together, they were able to free the woman.

Firefighters pumped gas into the mud to loosen it so the woman could be pulled out.

After being stuck for more than 45 minutes, she was eventually freed and taken to Broomfield Hospital for treatment.

Sgt Felton received the Chief Constable’s commendation for his heroic efforts at the Essex Police HQ in Chelmsford on Friday.

Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh said: “The officers here today represent the best of British policing.

“Each officer acted without hesitation and their quick thinking has saved lives.

“Saving a life is a remarkable thing to do and I’m proud of each and every one of you today.”

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

Six other officers were also recognised for their dedication to the job.

Sgt Paul Gooding from Chelmsford received a commendation for his dedication and professionalism when he helped a woman with mental health issues who was threatening to jump from a multi storey car park in August 2016.

Dc Glen Crosby from Southend was recognised for his quick-thinking and bravery when a security guard collapsed at a court in Southend and was not breathing.

Four officers received commendations for their dedication and professionalism when dealing with a crash in north Essex.

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex attended the ceremony to congratulate each officer.