Delivery drivers recognised from rescuing family from sinking car
Neil and Stephen made a heroic rescue in Bramcote, saving a family from a submerged car
Two delivery drivers, Neil and Stephen, made a heroic rescue in Bramcote when they saved a family from a submerged car.
On 5th March 2025, the drivers spotted a vehicle that had flipped and was sinking in a lake as they approached Bramcote during their shift.
Recalling the event, Neil said: “It’s a bit of a blur to be honest – I just remember Steve yelling at me to pull over because someone was trying to flag us down."
Neil and Stephen jumped into action, with Neil diving into the water and Stephen forming a chain from the bank to reach the car.
“We jumped out the van and immediately saw a car had left the road, flipped onto its roof and was starting to sink in a nearby lake. We could see what looked like two or three people trapped inside and we weren’t thinking about anything else – instinct just kicked in and we both ran straight to the water...” Neil explained.
Together, they pulled a mother and her two young children to safety before emergency services arrived on the scene.
Their timely intervention prevented what could have been a tragic outcome.
In a recent awards ceremony, Neil and Stephen received a Chief Constable’s commendation for their bravery.
Presenting the award, the Chief Constable praised the pair’s courage and public spirit, describing their actions as an example of the very best of the community.
Neil reflected on the event, saying, “It definitely wasn’t your typical shift, but we just wanted to help and we’re glad we were able to get them out safely. Most days the job is pretty uneventful, so this was something completely different. We’re both really proud and thankful to be recognised, but I honestly think anyone would have done the same.”
Interestingly, this is not the first time Neil has acted beyond his call of duty. A few years ago, he smashed down an elderly customer's door after she’d collapsed on the floor.
Stephen added how proud they both were to be recognised for their actions.
As the saying goes, not all heroes wear capes - some have delivery uniforms!