Kilkenny hero who rescued drowning girl from River Nore recognised for bravery

By COLIN BARTLEY

A KILKENNY man who saved a girl from drowning in the River Nore seven years ago received a National Bravery Award at Farmleigh House, Dublin yesterday

Adrian Brennan (33) from Wolfe Tone Street, Kilkenny was lauded as a hero when he risked his own life to save a young girl who was close to death in the River Nore.

On November 25, 2012, Adrian heard shouts outside his house that there was a girl in the river. His mum Geraldine was at the river and pointed out the girl in the water near Greenbridge.

Adrian could not swim but entered the water regardless. He managed to grab hold of the girl and drag her to a ladder attached to the river wall. With some help from his mother, they managed to get the girl up onto the bank and started resuscitation, but the girl was slipping in and out of consciousness.

Bizarrely, some passers-by were asked to ring an ambulance but refused. Adrian then picked the girl up and ran back to his house in an effort to warm up the girl. An ambulance arrived soon after and the girl was brought to St Luke’s hospital, where she remained in Intensive Care for three days.

That was seven years ago, and this year out of the blue, Adrian found out he received a nomination for a Bravery Award.

Adrian received a certificate of bravery for his actions, presented to him by An Ceann Comhairle, Seán Ó Fearghaíl.

The National Bravery awards celebrate, recognise, and give thanks to members of our communities who, through their selfless acts of courage, have helped other people.