Hugely deserved police recognition for Katie-Lou’s four rescuers
The MacLean family and Katie MacLean
THOSE who risked their lives to rescue Eyemouth teenager Katie-Lou McLean from the sea last year are to be rewarded for their bravery.
Katie-Lou is settling into life back at home now after eight months in hospital. She sustained severe brain injuries after a wave knocked her into the sea in Eyemouth on June 4 and a number of people made attempts to rescue her.
And now Lothian and Borders Police are to honour those people who selflessly tried to reach her and pull her to safety.
Today Charlene McCulloch, PC Brian Smith, Clare Waller and coastguard Norman Richardson are being recognised for their bravery at a ceremony at Lothian and Borders Police HQ, the last of its kind before the launch of Police Scotland in April.
A police press release said that Katie Lou’s parents, Andy and Niki were grateful to all those who played a part in her rescue and were pleased they were being rewarded.
Commenting on the heroics of the Eyemouth quartet and the other 31 award recipients, Chief Constable of Lothian and Borders Police, David Strang, said: “As police officers we come across crises and emergency situations in our day-to-day business, but these awards recognise the times when officers and members of the public have shown exceptional courage beyond the call of duty.
“The criteria for winners is clear - they have been in a situation where they have taken a decision to act for the benefit of others, often risking their own lives in the process, and it is this public spirit that we are pleased to recognise in each and every one. Although this is the last Lothian and Borders Police Meritorious Awards, I would like to reassure the public that the new service will continue to celebrate the courage and bravery of our officers, and the communities we serve.”
It’s been a tough year for the MacLean family but they got the news they’ve been wanting to hear for months last week; that Katie Lou was allowed to leave Edinburgh’s Sick Kids Hospital and return home.
In a post on www.careforkatielou.co.uk, dad Andy wrote: “We have been enjoying spending time with her again in our own home. She’s settled in well and her bedroom and wetroom are looking amazing. Thanks to everyone who helped make this happen. It feels like the three of us can finally make a new start.”
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Weather for Duns
Wednesday 22 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 3 C to 13 C
Wind Speed: 23 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 5 C to 9 C
Wind Speed: 25 mph
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