A RECENT BATHING ACCIDENT

Dominion, Volume 10, Issue 2987, 26 January 1917, Page 6

A RECENT BATHING ACCIDENT

Sir,—l trust you will grant me space in your paper for the following letter :— Having gone to Paremata yesterday to spend the hot day, and not knowing the danger of the river, my three eldest children, ages 6, 8, and 11 years, went in to bathe, and they had not gone more than three yards when they were plunged into deep water. Luckily I came on the scene in time, having been away for some tea, and had I stayed away one minute longer Mrs. Davidson and the three children would have been drowned. This occurred on the other side of the bridge, and it was during my return over the bridge that I noticed the children sinking, the hands only visible. I ran over and plunged in with all my clothes on. I landed the eldest boy, when Mrs. Davidson ran in to try and rescue the youngest, but not being able to swim was carried'under. I then, went to her and brought her out after some difficulty, but we wish •to thank Master Sterling, of 227 Thorndon Quay, who gallantly came to the rescue of our little girl, who was then' well under the water. Ho ran in with ■ all his clothes on. and rescued her )( but not without great difficulties, and had it not been for his gallant act our little daughter would have been drowned, as I was then completely exhausted. We also wish to thank tho young men who so bravely worked to bring back life to our darling little ones, and also the residents, who did so much for my wife and family in our great trouble. I am writing this to give you full particulars of the case; and not for my own actions, but to thank those who did such grand work, and to thank them through the Press.—l am. etc., P. W. DAVIDSON. 115 Dixon Street, Wellington.