A 14-year-old girl has been honored with one of the country’s highest awards for bravery after attempting to rescue a teenager from drowning in a river last year. Shelby Quigley was recognized with the Royal Humane Society Silver Medal for her courageous actions during the incident near Garstang Cricket Club in Lancashire.

In May, Shelby, who was participating in a Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Expedition along the River Wyre, witnessed 15-year-old Lotus Bowker struggling in the water. Lotus had jumped into the river with friends despite limited swimming ability. According to reports, Lotus, from Kirkham, lived with a developmental learning disorder that affected his communication and awareness of risk.

Upon seeing Lotus sink below the surface, Shelby quickly removed his heavy clothing and boots and repeatedly dived beneath the water to reach him. Despite facing strong currents and being submerged for extended periods, she managed to bring him to the surface. However, the river depth prevented her from standing and supporting him above water. A man nearby then entered the river to help pull Lotus to the shore, where resuscitation efforts began.

Lotus was airlifted to Royal Preston Hospital and later transferred to Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, where he passed away the following day.

Andrew Chapman, secretary of the Royal Humane Society, praised Shelby’s determination and composure under extreme circumstances. He noted that few recipients receive the silver medal, which is reserved for acts of exceptional bravery. “Shelby gave him the best possible chance of survival,” Chapman said. “Few people would have persisted in the way she did when they were so close to drowning themselves.”

The award highlights the extraordinary efforts made by Shelby in a life-threatening situation, demonstrating remarkable courage and quick thinking despite her young age.