A FATHER-OF-THREE who risked his life in a bid to save a woman who threw herself off a ferry has been commended.

When 36-year-old Mark Springhall saw Shirley Mann floating in the Thames after she threw herself from the Woolwhich Ferry, he launched a rescue bid.

The senior ferry deck hand of two years, of Lower Higham Road, Gravesend, climbed aboard a small rescue boat and after a 30-minute search found Mrs Mann.

He clung on to her despite being dragged towards the Thames Barrier by the strong current and the pair were picked up by police shortly afterwards.

Housewife Mrs Mann, 70, died at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woolwich, that evening.

Greenwich Council, which runs the ferry, has now honoured Mr Springhall as its employee of the month.

Remembering the event on November 12 last year, he said: "I knew I had to help when I saw her in the water.

"When I found her she was too heavy to get into the boat so I just held on to her.

"I actually thought she was dead but I did not want her to float away.

"I kept thinking she must have a husband or grandchildren and if she had floated away they may not have found her for days."

Mr Springhall was thrilled to think he had saved her life when he was told she was still alive when emergency services turned up but his elation were short-lived.

He continued: "I was gutted when I found out and felt like I had failed. I just wanted to be on my own.

"It was good of the council to give me this award."

A council spokesman said: "Mark is a valued employee and is receiving this award for his quick thinking. The police may now put him forward for a commendation."

Mr Springhall was presented with a framed certificate at the town hall on January 24.

He will also be treated to meal at Eltham Palace on Friday with fellow employees who were also nominated for the January award.

l The inquest into Mrs Mann's death will take place at Southwark Coroner's Court on March 1.