MULTIPLE sclerosis sufferer Paulene Nash says she owes her life to a quick-thinking mystery man who dragged her from a swimming pool.

Paulene, 57, of Providence Villas, London Road, Loudwater, was waiting to take part in a swimming lesson at High Wycombe Sports Centre's pool last Friday, when she suffered a violent attack of vertigo.

She said: "Suddenly I didn't know what was happening - I couldn't get to the surface because I couldn't tell what was up and what was down. It was terrifying.

"But someone grabbed me and dragged me to the side of the pool. His quick reactions saved me from a lot more panic and maybe worse - there's no doubt in my mind I could have drowned if it had not been for him."

Paulene, who has since vowed to continue swimming, also praised staff at the sports centre, who comforted her before an ambulance arrived to take her to Wycombe Hospital.

She said: "I'll be eternally grateful to the instructor who stayed with me - she probably still has bruises on her fingers as I was clutching her as my lifeline."

Wycombe Sports Centre's marketing manager Adrian Cable said the staff who looked after Paulene were swimming instructor Judy Cobie and lifeguards Dan Pithers and Toby Bradford.

He said: "All the staff who work here are fully qualified in life saving and first aid and are trained to deal with instances like this. It is all part of the job and we are just very grateful that the outcome was a happy one."

Paulene still does not know the identity of the man who initially pulled her from the pool. She said: "I would love to meet him again, just to say a proper 'thank you' and to shake his hand."

Do you know Paulene's saviour? Call the newsdesk on (01494) 521212, ext 2213.

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