A north-east firefighter has been commended for jumping into Macduff Harbour to save a woman’s life – for the second time.
Kevin Smith, alongside fishermen Hisona Gilbert and Rustam Psiancin, dived into the water in October 2015 after a car plunged off the pier.
Lithuanian Mr Psiancin grabbed a rope to tie the rear of the vehicle to a local trawler to prevent it from drifting away.
Off-duty firefighter Mr Smith arrived at the scene moments later and dove in – prising open the door of the car and pulling the woman to safety.
She has since made a full recovery.
The men had previously been awarded for their efforts by the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals.
And they have now each been commended by the Royal Humane Society, which grants awards for acts of bravery in saving lives.
Last night, modest Mr Smith, 43, admitted he found all the praise “embarrassing” as he was just doing his job.
“We made a good team on the day and being water rescue trained was definitely a bonus,” he said.
“I am just delighted we were able to save the lady’s life.”
Mr Psiancin and Mr Smith were presented with their awards by Chief Inspector Elaine Logue and Inspector Sheila McDerment this week.
Inspector Neil Campbell, who applied for the honours in recognition of their efforts on behalf of Police Scotland, said: “Their quick-thinking actions undoubtedly saved a life and as such are fully deserving of such a prestigious award.”
David Rout, senior fire officer for Aberdeenshire and Moray added: “I am delighted and extremely proud that Kevin is being recognised for his actions at this incident under extremely challenging conditions.
“He is not only a credit to himself and his family but also his colleagues within the service and our wider emergency service family.”
