Determination saves boy's life The life of a ten year old boy was saved in May thanks to the determination and cooperation of Cullercoats lifeboat crew and lifeguard Chris Heaney - earning them all a Letter of Appreciation from the RNLI's Chief of Operations.Cullercoats' Atlantic 21 lifeboat launched at 1723 on 7 May, in response to a report that a person was in difficulties opposite the Rex Hotel in Whitley Bay. The lifeboat, helmed by Robert Oliver together with Crew Members Graham Webb and David Pendlington, arrived at the location three minutes later where Lifeguard Chris Heaney could be seen in the water supporting the casualty.

Because of the breaking seas Mr Heaney could not get ashore with the boy so he turned him over and kept his head above the water until the lifeboat veered down and swiftly recovered them both.

As the lifeboat made good speed back to the station, David Peddlington and Chris Heaney gave the casualty CPR and continued doing so with great determination despite the boy's worsening condition.

Upon arrival, Mr Heaney, now suffering from hypothermia, and the boy were transferred straight to hospital were they both made full recoveries..