A PLUCKY RESCUE.

Press, Volume LIII, Issue 15793, 8 January 1917, Page 5

A PLUCKY RESCUE.

A particularly exciting and plucky rcscuc from drowning was cffccted by Mr J. J. Plunkct at the Akito Pier on New Year's Day (reports the Pahiatua "Herald")- 'Mr W. E. Davies. of Pongaroa, got caught in a strong undercurrent while batliing, and. after being helplessly tossed about by the powerful action of the waves for 's<jme time, was finally brought out exhausted, but alive. Mr Davies had been riding his horse in the surf for some time, and then plunged in for a swim. It was not long before it was observed that he Was in difficulties. Mr Plunkct, who was in the breakers about a chain away, immediately went to Mr Davics's assistance. The rescuer was unable to reaoh him, being beaten back by the wash of the wavers, and retired for a breather. A second attempt was made, and though Mr Plnnket this time was able to get hold of Mr Davies, ho failed to pull him into shallow waier. Exhausted. Mr Plunkct returned to shore again, and meantime Mr Davies was washed up and down, neither able to grip a pile of the old pier nor to reach the rocks on the opposite side. The rescuer, for the third time, plunged into the water, battled valiantly against the heavy wash, reached the drowning man. and. sticking determinedly to the tas!;. got him to safety, being assisted in the final effort by Mr S. W. Matthews, who, thongh unable to swim, waded into the water neck deep. Both rescuer and rescued were landed completely exhausted, particularly the latter.

'Jhe sensational rescue was witnessed by a large crowd, mostly of women and children. Mr Plu'nket was the only swimmer present sufficiently powerful to make the effort, and his previous knowledge of the water, through being employed in landing work, was of great service. He was not only rousingly cheered and commcndcd for his courageous effort. but the sum of £20 was subscribed on the spot, and presented to him.