A YOUNG girl from Stretford became a lifesaver this week when she rescued her close friend from drowning.

Thirteen year old Natalie Damerill from Canute Court jumped into the Bridgewater Canal to help Dominique Davidson after she had tripped and fallen in.

The two were walking along the canal with their friend Michelle Maher at around 3pm when the drama began.

Twelve year old Dominique from Thomas Street had tripped on the uneven pathway along the canal near to their homes in Gorse Hill and lost her balance before falling into the water.

But she was soon helped out when Natalie dived in fully clothed to pull her to safety.

Dominique told SUM: "I panicked after falling in and it felt that I was being pulled under the surface because of the mud and slime on the canal bottom.

"I didn't know what to do as I am not a strong enough swimmer to get out and I definitely would have struggled if Natalie hadn't have jumped in."

Once young Natalie had got to her friend, she swam to the side where Michelle was on hand to help both out of the murky water.

Natalie said: "I didn't think about what I was doing I just jumped in because my friend looked like she was drowning.

Both girls are relieved to be safe despite some cuts and bruises to their legs and say that they hope it will be a warning to other youngsters who play near the canal.

Dominique added: "Although the canal looks shallow it is the mud and rubbish in there that can disguise how deep it really is.

"I am just glad to be still here when I think of what could have happened - and I know I am lucky and owe my friends a huge debt."

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.