EIGHT-year-old Paul Basey has been feted as a hero after saving a girl from drowning in a swimming pool.

Young Paul dived into the deep end to rescue Stacey Younger, eight, when he saw her floundering at the Consett Swimming Pool.

This week Colin Sillett, head teacher at Bishop Ian Ramsey Primary School in Medomsley, awarded him a special certificate of achievement for his bravery.

The drama began when Stacey, who was swimming with her elder sister Emma, 15, and a friend, got into trouble when she got out of her depth.

Paul said: "I saw her pulling at another girl's hair to stay above the water. I dived in and pulled her to the side and got her out of the pool."

Stacey said: "I can't swim that well and got out of my depth. I am really grateful to Paul."

Paul, who was praised at school assembly, said: "I didn't realise what was happening or how the school came to find out about it.

"I'm very proud of the certificate and very pleased I was able to help."

Mr Sillett said: "He is not boastful or big headed and just gets on with things. Obviously he has done us all proud. He showed bravery in diving in to save her."

Stacey's father, Philip Younger, of The Dene, Medomsley said: "Stacey's older sister was trying to help, but Stacey was thrashing about and pulling her hair. She and her friend were unable to help, but thankfully Paul jumped in and pulled her out.

"He lives in the same street as us and is a nice lad. We are really thankful."

Paul's mother Sonya Walling said: "I am so proud of him. He has been swimming since we took him on holiday last year - and is a good swimmer."