Mark Smith, Geoff Handley and Adam Handley
Nominated for Bravery award
During February 2020, Wales was hit by Storm Dennis which led to extensive flooding. In Monmouthshire, the River Wye burst its banks and one 62 year old lady ended up being stranded after driving into the swollen river. As the water continued to rise, she climbed onto the roof of her completely submerged car when she was spotted nearly 12 hours later by Geoff Handley who was walking his dog. Geoff realised the seriousness of the situation and called for help. He was joined by Mark Smith and his son Adam Handley and without any thought to their own safety, the men braved the freezing water to the aid of the lady who had developed hypothermia and was slipping in and out of consciousness. They managed to bring her to the safety of the flood water before emergency services arrived. Their selfless action saved the lady’s life.