BRAVE lifesavers have received awards for plucking surf ski racers to safety in rough seas and high winds.

Jack Davey, 23, and 17-year-old Louis Bridet leapt into action when competitors got into difficulty during a race at Lulworth Cove last summer.

The pair, from Southbourne Surf Life Saving Club, rescued two people who were having problems less than 10 metres from rocks.

They managed to manoeuvre their rescue boat between the waves and the rocks to pull the competitors to safety.

Their bravery was witnessed by rescue boat driver Helen Keeling who said: “I was aghast at not only their skill and manoeuvrability but the fact they did not hesitate.”

They were presented with awards when Bournemouth hosted the Surf Life Saving GB national conference and Heroes of the Surf dinner.

Southbourne’s club chairman Bill Ezekiel received a long service award for 25 years of life-saving.

He praised the actions of Jack and Louis and said: “These rescues required courage, skill, perfect timing and absolute confidence in the ability of your crew mate.”

Other local award winners included James Best from the Branksome Chine club and Miles Landless from Christchurch who were presented with certificates for services to sport.

Sam Baker from Christchurch, a qualified lifeguard who now trains other young people, was named Youth Volunteer of the Year.