Four school rowing coaches have received national commendations after their coordinated intervention helped protect a woman in severe distress beside Bedford’s River Great Ouse.
Richard White and Jason Foster of Bedford School, together with Bedford Modern School coaches Daniella Flemons and Lily Boulton, have each been awarded a Royal Humane Society Certificate of Commendation.
The awards recognise conduct that contributes to saving, or attempting to save, another person’s life without necessarily placing the rescuer at risk. The Society said the coaches’ actions almost certainly prevented the woman from entering the river.
Coaches Intervene During Morning Rowing Session
The incident began during a morning rowing session when White, cycling along the riverside while coaching, saw the woman lying flat on the embankment close to the water.
White initially thought she was photographing swans. He stopped to check on her, became concerned for her safety and arranged for the students to be escorted back to the boathouse.
Foster arrived and called for emergency assistance. Flemons then spotted what was happening as she cycled by and went up to the woman, starting a conversation before Boulton joined her.
The four coaches stayed with the woman, kept talking to her and tried to keep her safe. They learned that she had diabetes and could not recall when she had last eaten. Police arrived shortly afterwards and helped her to safety and further support.
“Our primary concern that morning was the welfare of the woman,” Flemons told the Bedford Independent.
“We simply did what we hoped anyone would do in that situation, staying calm, working together and making sure she wasn’t left alone until the emergency services arrived.”
National Recognition for Four Coaches
Andrew Chapman, secretary of the Royal Humane Society, said the group had managed a difficult situation with great care.
“They did a great job, and almost certainly their action prevented the woman from going into the river,” he said. “All four richly deserve the awards they are to receive.”
Ian McGowan, director of sport at Bedford School, said the intervention showed how skills discussed in a sporting setting could matter beyond training and competition.
“In sport, we often talk about leadership and performing under pressure, but this reminds us that being kind can be just as powerful,” he said.
Founded by doctors William Hawes and Thomas Cogan in 1774, the Royal Humane Society recognises people who save or attempt to save human life. Its awards range from medals to commendation and resuscitation certificates.
