Man Saved in Brave Rescue Attempt in Grey River

Grey River Argus, 12 October 1948, Page 4

Man Saved in Brave Rescue Attempt in Grey River

Jumped from Cobden Bridge

Only a brave rescue attempt by Mr Leo Morresey, a taxi proprietor of Greymouth saved the life of a man who was collected in the Grey River opposite tne Tainui Street intersection early last evening. Apparently the man entered the river by jumping the Cobden bridge where he was first seen by Mr Morresey. He was soon drifting and appeared to be in a distresed condition. Removing only his sports coat, Mr Morresey entered the river, and after swimming out almost to half-way, secured a hold of the man by the neck, and dragged him ashore on his back. The man, whose name was William Vincent Smith, aged 38 years, believed to be an Australian, was in a fully dressed state when rescued. Constable W. H. Sherwin who was on duty at the time, and Sergeant O. L Hansen were on the scene, and the man was taken into the cabin of the trawler- Nile. He was there attended by Dr W. A. Bird, and taken to the Grey Hospital by ambulance. Dr S. Barclay was also present. Probably overcome by cramp, tne man required attention on the spot, but was later able to walk to the ambulance with assistance. His condition is satisfactory. It is understood that Smith is a returned man who has not been enjoying good health.