Teenage trio rescue woman from sea

Jonathan McGarvey, Ed Coxhead and Jason Linskey, who are all 17 and studying for A levels at Bexhill College, were in the top of a double decker bus when they saw the woman disappearing in a big wave.

The three friends, who are part of a band called Lazy Creek, did not think twice about jumping off the bus as it stopped at traffic lights and running down the beach to help her.

A police spokesman said officers were so impressed by the boys' bravery that they are being put forward for an award.

Jon and Jason dived into the wintry sea while Ed called an ambulance.

Lead singer Jason, of Edmund Road, Hastings, said: "Jon got to her first and he saw her foot. We didn't think she was alive.

"It was freezing cold so we wrapped a big coat round her and she started coughing.

"The police were saying we saved her life which was kind of cool. We were on a bit of a high when we did the gig that night."

Guitarist Ed, who lives in Eastbourne, said: "We weren't really thinking - it was instinct. It was so surreal seeing her get hit by the wave.

"It is not a very nice subject to talk about, but it was so lucky we were on a double decker and the traffic lights were there. We can't go past without checking out of the window now."

Jon, the bassist, of Athelstan Road, said:

His mum Maggie said: "This is the third time he has gone into the sea to rescue someone. There was a lad in the summer and another a couple of years ago.

"I am so proud of him. He is a real credit."

The soaking wet boys were taken home by the police, and just had time to recover before appearing, with the other band members, at a party in Brighton.

The woman, believed to be in her 30s, was taken to the Conquest, but was later discharged.