Give feedback on this pageA Denbighshire countryside warden narrowly missed winning the Council Worker of the Year award for bravery at a prestigious awards ceremony in Bournemouth last night (Thursday).
Garry Davies was nominated by Denbighshire's Chief Executive, Ian Miller for jumping into the sea with James Larminine to try and rescue Mr Eddie Lewis who was spotted in the sea off Barkby Beach, Prestatyn. Despite pulling him to safety and administering first aid, Mr Lewis was confirmed to have died.
Garry was one of six nominations in the bravery category and there are only two Welsh people among the 42 finalists chosen from 350 entries. The Council Worker of the Year awards were organised by the Local Government Association.
Garry said: 'I was truly humbled to be nominated for this prestigious award. I cannot thank people enough for their support for the Vote Garry campaign and having the backing of so many people, including Mr Lewis' family, has been tremendous.
“I’m really proud to have been shortlisted and entries were of extremely high standard. I was delighted to be part of such a prestigious event.”
Chief Executive, Ian Miller, said: “After an excellent competition and a very impressive set of nominations in the bravery category, all the nominees were acknowledged with a standing ovation at the event.
“While Garry didn't win overall, his brave act and nomination have brought great credit to him and the council”.
Chairman of Denbighshire, Councillor Raymond Bartley, said: 'On behalf of all staff and councillors at Denbighshire I would like to offer my congratulations to Garry for making the final six in the bravery category. His act of bravery fully deserved to be recognised and being shortlisted is an honour in itself.”