Two police officers have been hailed heroes after saving the life of a 21-year-old woman by swimming a quarter of mile out to sea.

Police constables Mark Lenihan and Timothy Hopkins persuaded the woman, who was threatening suicide, to return to the shore after swimming the 400-yards to rescue her in May.

Persuading suicidal people to return to safety is never easy, but it must be even harder during a 400-yard swim

Major General Christopher Tyler

The South Wales Police officers have received a top honour for their life saving effort.

The Royal Humane Society Testimonial accolade was awarded to the men in recognition of their act of bravery.

About 100 of these awards are issued each year by the society which was formed by a group of London doctors in 1774.

It is the leading UK organisation responsible for honouring lifesavers and those who have been involved in heroic rescue incidents.

Major General Christopher Tyler, Secretary of the Royal Humane Society, praised the bravery of the two policemen.

"Persuading suicidal people to return to safety is never easy, but it must be even harder during a 400-yard swim"

"However, these two fine officers carried it off marvellously, proving themselves to be a credit to the force.

"They thoroughly deserve their awards," he said.

Appeal

The society awarded the honour to the two officers after a personal recommendation from South Wales' Chief Constable Sir Tony Burden.

Major Tyler has appealed for members of the public to tell him about the heroic efforts of people in Wales.

"We are always keen to have rescue and life-saving incidents brought to our attention.

"We consider there are probably a lot of incidents which merit awards but which are never brought to our notice."

No date has been set for the presentation of the awards but it is expected to be later this year.