Hero estate agent saves woman from drowning

A young estate agent is being praised because of his heroic actions to save a woman from drowning. 

Austin Mellor - just 25, the youngest member of the Edward Mellor family estate agency business in Greater Manchester - sprang into action when he saw a woman drowning off the coast of Benllech, Anglesey.

Austin’s quick reactions saved the life of a Manchester-based woman, Marget Kinnucane, who was enjoying a holiday in Benllech with her friend Tina Powsey and her husband. 

Tina detailed her account on Facebook, saying: “By the grace of God, we’re alive. We both very much nearly lost our lives today on Benllech Beach in the sea … Mags and I wanted to go out for a little invigorating swim but neither of us realised how rapidly the tide and current moved us out and across. Before we knew it, our laughter turned to terror and we couldn’t touch the ground.

“I saw a young man (Austin Mellor) across the road watching us and I motioned for him to help. He didn’t hesitate to climb across the rocks to help. My friend couldn’t regain her footing and was going under quickly.

“I managed to roll on my back and float and then began doing a backstroke. I panicked and then a massive peace washed over me for just enough time to control my erratic breathing and get to a point where I could stand. It was absolutely horrifying.

“I asked the young man if he could get my friend and he said yes, he was a strong swimmer.

“Thank God he was there – he literally saved her life. I couldn’t make it back out to her but he did. Two other young men quickly followed and they helped pull my friend to refuge on the rocks.”

A message on the Edward Mellor website says everyone at the firm - especially his father, chief executive Colin Mellor - is incredibly proud.

“He demonstrated immense bravery, strength, and human compassion by risking his own life to save another without a second thought. Well done Austin, you’re our hero!” says the company.

And everyone at Estate Agent Today sends its good wishes to the two women at the centre of the incident, and to Austin for his quick thinking and bravery.