Doggedly determined Telford Pc saves pooch
[gallery] A police officer from Telford has saved an adventurous dog from drowning, after it was left stranded on a park lake island.
The dramatic scene unfolded in Wolverhampton's West Park, where Yorkshire terrier Lexi had been out walking with its owner.
After deciding to go for a swim in the park's boating lake, Lexi began to struggle to keep above the surface and promptly found safety on a small island.
Her owner and park ranger Cameron Paul frantically called for help. Step forward PC Ben Bates, who paddled across in one of the park's small boats, using a plank of wood as an oar.
However, after the officer coaxed Lexi into his boat, she promptly jumped back into the water. PC Bates then jumped in after Lexi before guiding the soaking mutt back to dry land.
The 31-year-old officer, who commutes from Telford in his role with West Midlands Police, admitted it was a bizarre turn of events.
"It took five minutes to get the dog in the boat and she wasn't happy. I'm not the best with dogs to be honest," he said. "We were only 10 metres away from the island when the dog jumped out of the boat, so I just jumped in after her.
"I didn't realise how deep the water was – it went up to my chest and then I got the dog and walked back to the owner who gave me a hug."
Schoolgirl Emma Bentley watched the whole drama unfold yesterday.
The 14-year-old was in the park taking some photographs when she heard some loud barking, as well as Lexi's owner shouting the dog's name.
Emma, who attends Codsall High School, said: "Everyone was watching and we all have great respect for the officer who saved the little dog."
