Pc Purvis risked his life to rescue the girls
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A police officer who plunged into the sea to rescue two girls is to be recognised for his bravery.
Pc Darren Purvis from Northumbria Police is to receive the Queen's Commendation for Bravery for his actions in February.
Jade Anderson, 12, from Seghill, died later after being pulled from the sea at Seaton Sluice, Northumberland. Three of her friends were saved.
Jade's mother Sandra Bland paid tribute to Mr Purvis' actions.
The four girls were swept into the water as they sat on a concrete slipway on 7 February.
Mr Purvis and two fishermen rescued Jade and the other three girls including Beth Gardner, who were all treated in hospital.
Jade was swept out to sea by a wave
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Ms Bland said in a statement: "On behalf of myself and my family, I wish to congratulate Darren. This is no less than he deserves.
"We may not have had the outcome we wanted for Jade, but had it not been for his bravery, Beth may also have died.
"He risked his own life trying to save Jade and for that we will be eternally grateful. In our opinion he is a hero."
Mr Purvis will receive his award on 19 January. It is granted for an act of gallantry that involves risk to life and deserves national recognition.
Ch Supt Graham Pears, of Northumberland Area Command, said: "Darren acted in the best traditions of the police service and took great personal risks
"He was very courageous and his actions led to a life being saved. We are very proud of him. This award is richly deserved."
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