A QUICK-thinking passer took part in a dramatic river rescue this morning along with about half-a-dozen police officer. A woman fell into the River Yare at about 12.

A QUICK-thinking passer took part in a dramatic river rescue this morning along with about half-a-dozen police officers.

A woman fell into the River Yare at about 12.40am opposite Nottingham Way, in Great Yarmouth, and was spotted by eagle-eye passer by Flavio Fernandes.

Mr Fernandes rushed over to the river wall and climbed down the side steps and got hold of the woman, who was stuck between a ship and the river wall.

Another passer by, who spotted the drama, called police who arrived on scene within minutes.

Acting Sgt Glenn Leban used a rope line with a life aid attached to support Mr Fernandes in his rescue attempt but it became clear he needed more help.

Insp Danny Kett and PC Jim Clifford then climbed down between the ship and river wall and got into the water - with officers Graeme Poole and Gary Gibbs provided safety lines.

The victim was pulled from the water and taken to the James Paget University Hospital for treatment where she is recovering.

Superintendent for the Yarmouth district Jim Smerdon said: “This is police work at its best with a fantastic response from both Mr Fernandes and our officers.”