A TEENAGER who dived into a river to save a drunken man on Valentine's Day has been honoured by the Thames Valley's Chief Constable.

Shaion Kozlowski was walking near County Lock in the River Kennet in central Reading when spotted a drunken man splashing around.

The man, who appeared to be struggling, had fallen into the water.

Shaion jumped into the river and held the man's head above water until emergency services arrived.

The 17-year-old was honoured at the Chief Constable's Award Ceremony yesterday at Holdsworth Hall, Sulhamstead.

Francis Habgood, Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police said Shaion's actions put him at considerable danger to save the life of another person.

"To hear the stories behind these commendations makes me feel very proud and privileged," said Francis.

"Not only do we have our own officers, who have demonstrated their courage, professionalism and skill in dealing with a life-or-death situation, but also a young member of public who has gone above and beyond to ensure the safety of another person."

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police added: "Upon seeing the man in trouble near County Lock in the River Kennet in Reading town centre on 14 February, this year, Shaion quickly took action, jumping in and holding the man’s head above water until emergency services arrived."