THE actions of a quick-thinking man are thought to have saved a toddler’s life at Studland Beach.

Daniel Leek, 33, from Wednesbury in the West Midlands was on a family day out at the beach on Saturday, August 20. 

Daniel was enjoying the glorious sunshine at beach when he noticed a young child – thought to be no older than three – struggling in the water after a ship created "huge" waves in the sea.

Within seconds the youngster was overcome by the waves and was being rolled around under the water, prompting Daniel to dash across the beach.

Thankfully, he got there just in time and was able to rescue the child, who was shaken but uninjured.

Daniel said: "There was what I believed to be a cargo ship that came past the beach and created these huge waves. 

"There was a family in the sea and when the waves came along they completely swept their daughter away. 

"She was only about two or three years old and I could see her just rolling in the water from the power of the wave. 

"When I spotted it I ran into the sea and scooped her out.

Clinging on to Daniel tightly, the young girl was taken back to her parents.

Daniel added: "I think it was just my parental instinct, I have five kids myself.

"She was really shaken up after the incident. Her dad was in the sea with her but he had gone further out into the sea so I managed to get to her first.

"Her parents were very grateful I managed to spot what was happening so quickly. 

"It shows how dangerous the sea can be and everyone should be so careful. Things can change in a matter of minutes so you should always keep an eye out, especially if you have kids."