FIREFIGHTERS who brought a six-year-old boy back from the dead after he fell into an icy river have received top lifesaving honours.

Martin Brocklehurst, aged 28, and Michael Hobbins, aged 46, were awarded Royal Humane Society Certificates of Commendation for wading out into the River Tonge to reach Connor Scott after he fell into the river in March.

Michael Rothwell, aged 39, was joined by Wigan firefighter Peter Kitts, aged 40, and Jeremy Howorth, aged 43, from Salford, who then carried out cardiac resuscitation and administered oxygen to revive Connor. The three men were awarded Resuscitation Certificates by the society.

On Friday the men received their awards and praise from Deputy County Fire Officer Tony Proctor, who said: "Were it not for the professional and speedy response of firefighters, young Connor would not be with us today.

"I congratulate the firefighters for their action and conduct on the day. I am immensely proud of my firefighters for their professional and superb job."

Thanking the men for their heroics, little Connor said: "The firemen were very brave to save me."

Connor, of Little Lever, had been playing with two friends in a field when he slipped and fell into nettles above the river before plunging 30 feet into the water below.

He was unconscious and had been at the bottom of the 3ft 6ins deep river for five minutes when he was plucked to safety.

The firefighters gave him mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on the river bank.

Father Lee Scott, aged 32, said: "If it wasn't for the dedication of the fire brigade, my son wouldn't be here. They were outstanding. There are no words to describe my gratitude other than to congratulate the service on having such a talented and dedicated staff."

It is estimated that by the time he was rescued, Connor had been under water for 13 minutes.

He was carried to a nearby car park where Mr Kitts, Mr Howorth and Mr Rothwell carried out resuscitation and administered oxygen.

Just a day-and-a-half after the incident, Connor was back home and a week later returned to his desk at Bowness Primary School.