A tourist who risked his life to save a man from drowning in the River Ouse has been commended for his bravery by North Yorkshire Police.

Simon Hope, 28, from Warrington, Cheshire, was due to be given the Royal Humane Society Testimonial commendation by North Yorkshire chief constable David Kenworthy in an awards ceremony today for police officers and members of the public.

Mr Hope stripped off and made the daring rescue when a man got into trouble after leaping off Ouse Bridge last June. A witness to the rescue approached the Royal Humane Society urging them to decorate him for his actions.

Mr Hope said: "I heard a splash and turned round. There were lots of people there and it was red hot, so I just thought someone had jumped in to cool off, but then someone said he had gone in on his back.

"So I stripped off and jumped in. I didn't think about it and I don't know if I'd do it again. I knew nothing about the award until I got a letter through the post last week."

His actions were praised by society secretary Christopher Tyler, who said: "This is a notoriously dangerous stretch of river and Mr Hope was at risk going in as he did.

"But he risked his own life to save the man in the water. No-one should underestimate the courage it takes to do this sort of thing."

Police spokesman Tony Lidgate said: "This is a marvellous example of public spirit."

Also PC Ian Dyer, based in York, was due to be awarded the United Nations Medal for his hard work and commitment during his year-long attachment to the International Police Task Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Mr Lidgate added: "We are proud that this officer made such a practical contribution to bring law, order and justice to a troubled part of the world."

The Chief Constable's Commendation was awarded to PC Malcolm Kay of Scarborough for his quick-thinking and determination in pursuing two burglars.

Burglars triggered the Snainton village shop burglar alarm and fled when off-duty PC Kay leaped from his bed and joined the chase. The thieves were caught and charged.

"It is typical of this officer that even when off duty he leapt from his bed and got involved," said Mr Lidgate.

"It is a well deserved commendation which recognises his determination and energy."

Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medals were awarded to:

Assistant chief constable Peter Bagshaw.

Chief inspector Les Potter, Harrogate.

Insp David Coutts, Northallerton.

Traffic Sgt Chris Charlton, Scarborough.

Sgt Michael Griffiths, Richmond.

Sgt Colin Marks, Harrogate.

Sgt David Landray, Scarborough.

Sgt David Ellis, Northallerton.

PC Julian Wood, Scarborough.

DC Con Angela Hullah, fraud squad.

DC Con Robert Grace, HQ.

DC Marie Carr, Knaresborough.

PC David Boag, York.

PC Marc Allison, Tadcaster.

PC Irene MacKenzie, Malton.

DC Andrew Sturdy, Thirsk.

PC David Witts, York.

PC Gary Lewis, Leyburn.

PC John PcPartlan, Harrogate.

DC Paul Barron, York.

DC Peter Walker, Northallerton.

Updated: 08:43 Friday, June 22, 2001