A 14-year-old girl named Shelby Quigley has been honored with a bravery award for her heroic act of rescuing a drowning 15-year-old boy, Lotus Bowker, from the River Wyre. Shelby, who was on a Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Expedition at the time, displayed immense courage by jumping into the river, removing her heavy clothing and boots, and pulling Lotus to the surface despite strong currents.
Despite facing difficulties and being submerged herself, Shelby managed to keep the boy afloat until a man entered the water to assist in bringing him to safety. Unfortunately, Lotus passed away the next day at the hospital. Shelby’s selfless actions did not go unnoticed, and she has now been awarded the Royal Humane Society Silver Medal for her exceptional bravery in attempting to save a life.
Andrew Chapman, Secretary of the Royal Humane Society, commended Shelby for her remarkable bravery, stating that she provided the boy with the best chance of survival. The coroner’s inquest revealed that Lotus, who had a Developmental Learning Disorder and could not swim properly, ventured into the river against advice. Despite efforts to save him, Lotus tragically succumbed to drowning.
Shelby’s quick thinking and courageous actions in the face of danger were praised by witnesses, including Neil Quinn and off-duty anaesthetist Steve Wiggans, who assisted in the rescue efforts. Despite the tragic outcome, Shelby’s bravery in the rescue attempt was described as extraordinary for someone of her age. Lotus’s untimely death was attributed to drowning, with his underlying condition noted as a contributing factor.