HE'S no ordinary Joe. A Dorset police constable who risked his life to rescue two sisters from rough seas off Bournemouth has been nominated for a top award for his courage.

Patrol officer Joe Tansey, 27, will be honoured at the Police Bravery Awards, to be held in the Dorchester Hotel, London.

He will also be meeting the Prime Minister, Tony Blair, at a reception at 10 Downing Street.

Mr Tansey plunged into the sea near Fisherman's Walk, Bournemouth, in August 2004 after a distressed mother told him her two daughters were in difficulties 50 metres out to sea.

He could see 12-year-old Nicole Morris and 15-year-old Louise Tulley-Brake clinging to a groyne. The pair were out of their depth, with waves breaking over their heads, and were being battered against the groyne.

After removing his body armour and boots, PC Tansey waded in and swam against the rough sea and tide to reach the girls.

One of them managed to get within 30 yards of the shore on her own, from where an unknown member of the public dragged her to safety.

Mr Tansey managed to reach the other girl and tow her to the beach, where she received treatment for cuts and bruises.

All 43 police forces in the country were invited to select their top candidate from nominations by fellow officers of the local Police Federation.

Mr Tansey has already received a Royal Humane Society Award and been given a personal commendation by the Chief Constable of Dorset, Martin Baker.

Clive Chamberlain, chairman of Dorset Police Federation, said: "It is clear that Joe's actions helped to save the girls' lives and we are all immensely proud of him."