Dyfed Powys Police officer Spencer, who is a former lifeguard and kayak instructor, has been nominated for a national bravery award after swimming 100m out to sea to rescue the woman.

The incident happened at around 12.30am on 24 May 2025 after a woman contacted emergency services stating she intended to enter the water at Hamilton Terrace, Milford Haven.

Officers were initially unable to find the woman before Spencer heard shouting and located her by torchlight around 100m out to sea.

PC Spencer Rourke

Calling on his previous experience around the water, Spencer took off his kit and used a life float to swim out to her. The average water temperature in May is around 10C.

Spencer said: “She was fully clothed. She had a puffa jacket on, which was being overcome with water and would have dragged her down eventually.

“I swam out probably 100 metres or so. She was in distress and tried to swim away.

“I’d grabbed a life ring, with the intention of swimming out to get hold of her, for my sergeant to pull us back in.

Hospital

“However, when I got hold of her, unfortunately, on the way out the rope had become tangled, so I had to tell him to let it go, and I swam her back in.”

Colleagues helped them both from the water and the woman was taken to hospital where she received treatment and support for her mental health.

Spencer, meanwhile, did not require any medical attention and remained on duty. Emergency lifeboat and fire service crews were stood down before their arrival due to Spencer’s quick actions.

He’s now been nominated for a national Police Federation Bravery Award by Sergeant 911 Ieuan Anthony.

He said: “It is clear that PC Rourke’s selfless heroic actions saved the life of this member of the public.

Selflessness

“His actions were by far above and beyond what would be expected of him in such circumstances. He demonstrated commendable judgment and selflessness. His actions are a great credit to him and Dyfed Powys Police.”

Spencer, who joined Dyfed-Powys Police as a Special Constable in 1999 before serving with the Met in 2003 and ‘returning home’ 2007, said he was surprised but grateful for the nomination.

He said: “I’ve grown up around the sea. I’ve taught kayaking, I was a beach lifeguard, and I was a swimming pool lifeguard, so being in and around the water isn't a big thing for me.

“I think it would be a lot more for somebody who doesn't do all that stuff, which is why I’m a bit surprised at the nomination but at the same time very appreciative.

“There are people who put a lot of time and effort into police work, who don't get recognised for their service because they may never have to deal with something like that.

Brave

“It doesn't mean they're not brave for everything that they put themselves through over their career.

“We’re doing it for the people we serve.”

Delme Rees, Dyfed Powys Police Federation chair, said: “Faced with a rapidly developing and life-threatening situation, Spencer showed exceptional courage, calmness and selflessness in entering cold, dark waters to save a vulnerable member of the public.

His willingness to place himself at personal risk demonstrates the extraordinary commitment our officers show every day to protecting others.

“His actions represent policing at its very best and we’re proud to support his nomination.”

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