A RADCLIFFE teenager has been nominated for a top bravery award after he helped save four stranded children from being swept out to sea. Matthew Barlow, 16, of Westvale, put his own life in danger when he rescued the children while on holiday with his family in Scotland last year. The four brothers and sisters, all aged between seven and nine, had been cut off on a sandbank 600 metres from shore when the powerful Solway tide came rushing in around them.

Together with a retired Army major, Matthew and pal David Roberts held the frightened children on their shoulders while someone on the shore called for help.

It was almost an hour before the lifeboats were able to reach the party, by which time the water had reached Matthew's chin.

At one point, his friend lost his footing and stumbled down a deep ledge into the current, taking the youngster with him. But Matthew managed to grab hold and keep them all above water.

"The kids couldn't swim so we just put them on our shoulders," said Matthew, who was 15 at the time of the rescue. "I didn't really think about it. The shock of what happened didn't register until afterwards. I just did what had to be done."

Weeks later, youngsters have sent Matthew a poster of their favourite football star Ryan Giggs as a token of their thanks.

To honour his bravery, Matthew's mum secretly nominated him for 1998 Champion Children Award, which is sponsored by Haribo.

And judges were so impressed with the Bury College student's heroics, he has made it through to the regional finals.

On Thursday Matthew will join other regional finalists at the Savoy Hotel in London where he will receive his prize and certificate from HRH the Duchess of Kent.

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