A Southend-on-Sea City Council Resort Services Officer has been praised for his quick thinking and bravery after saving a man's life at West Beach Shoeburyness on Saturday 12 July.
Nigel Ley, part of the council's Resort Services Team, sprang into action when a male swimmer got into serious difficulty in the estuary shortly after 3pm. The man had been pulled to shore by Resort Officers and members of the public, but was unresponsive, not breathing, and showing no signs of a pulse.
Drawing on his emergency training, Nigel immediately began administering rescue breaths. After two or three rounds, the man began breathing independently and a weak pulse returned. Nigel placed him in the recovery position and stayed with him until emergency services arrived. The man was taken to Southend Hospital and is understood to be in a stable condition, thanks to Nigel's and the team's swift response.
Remarkably, this is not the first time Nigel has come to someone's aid. Last year, he also assisted someone in difficulty in the water near Southend Pier, once again demonstrating calmness under pressure and a courageous response.
With World Drowning Prevention Day taking place today (Friday 25 July 2025), and thousands of people expected to visit Southend's award-winning beaches over the summer holidays, this incident is a powerful reminder of the importance of water safety.
The council is encouraging everyone to familiarise themselves with the RNLI's Float to Live campaign, which offers lifesaving advice for anyone who finds themselves in difficulty in the water.
Cllr Matt Dent, cabinet member for business, culture, music and tourism, said: "I want to thank Nigel, a true front-line hero, and all those involved in this rescue, including our Resort Officers, members of the public, and the emergency services. Their actions undoubtedly saved a life. This incident shows what can be achieved when council staff, emergency responders and the community come together in a moment of crisis. Nigel represents everything we prize in our officers: courage, passion and dedication to make a real difference for Southend and everyone who lives and works here.
“As we head into the busy summer season, I'd strongly encourage everyone to learn about the RNLI's Float to Live campaign, it could literally save lives. I'm incredibly proud of the professionalism, care and commitment our teams show every day to keep our seafront and community safe."
The council is reminding everyone to take extra care around open water and to familiarise themselves with the RNLI's Float to Live campaign, simple advice that could help save a life.