Brighton Police Officers Honoured for Heroic Sea Rescue of Teenage Girl

Two courageous Brighton police officers have been honoured with a prestigious bravery award after risking their lives to save a vulnerable teenage girl from drowning in the sea. Sergeants Matthew Seekings and Craig Lees sprang into action one night in May last year after a report came in of a missing teenage girl believed to […]

Two courageous Brighton police officers have been honoured with a prestigious bravery award after risking their lives to save a vulnerable teenage girl from drowning in the sea.

Sergeants Matthew Seekings and Craig Lees sprang into action one night in May last year after a report came in of a missing teenage girl believed to be in distress. A police drone unit soon located a figure in the water—more than 50 metres from the shoreline, drifting in the cold, dark sea off Brighton.

Without hesitation, the two officers stripped off their equipment and entered the frigid waters. Fighting strong currents and near-freezing temperatures, they swam out to the girl and managed to bring her back to shore safely, potentially saving her life.

Their actions have now been formally recognised at the National Police Bravery Awards, where they were named regional winners for the South East. The pair were among 70 officers from 38 forces honoured at a ceremony hosted by the Police Federation in London.

Sergeant Seekings reflected on the recognition: “I feel honoured and proud to be voted as the South East winners, an accolade I would never have achieved without the help and support of all the officers present that evening. It is such a great experience to be a part of, telling the positive side of policing and showing the public what amazing work we all do, day in and day out.”

Sergeant Lees added: “I feel very proud to have received the regional award with Sergeant Seekings and representing Sussex Police. The award really helps advertise the positive actions that police take every day in order to keep the public safe. It feels great to be recognised for our actions that night and also represent the rest of our team that was all there and working together throughout the incident.”

The dramatic late-night rescue and the bravery shown by both officers serve as a powerful reminder of the daily risks police take to protect the public. Their quick thinking and selflessness under extreme conditions have earned not just official recognition but the respect and gratitude of the local community.