Three Jersey firefighters have been selected as finalists for a Pride of Britain award after rescuing a swimmer from St Ouen's Bay last year.

Late in the evening of 20 August 2023, Jonny Burch, Chris Sweeny and Nick Willis braved 'treacherous' breaking waves to save a man's life. 

At around 9.15pm, the firefighters were called to the bay where it was believed a man without a wetsuit or floating aids had gone in the sea and was drifting north. 

'Significant swell' meant conditions were too difficult to send out rescue boats so the three heroic firefighters intervened.

It took several attempts to reach the casualty, and of the firefighters needed hospital treatment for the injuries they suffered during the rescue.

Jonny Burch, Chris Sweeny, Nick Willis

The fire and rescue trio are up against four others for the This Morning Emergency Services Award. 

Jonny Burch said it was a shock to be nominated: 

“It was a real surprise when we found out that we had been nominated for a Pride of Britain award for the sea rescue at St Ouen’s Bay.

“It wasn’t something that we would have expected, but it is a great honour.

“It was a very dynamic incident, and it is a privilege to work in an organisation such as ours, where teamwork is so important and there is such a reliance on your team to have your back when needed.

“It’s great that we’ve got the support of all the team on the Watch, because the whole thing is a big team effort.”

The three firefighters have already been awarded with Jersey Humane Society Silver Medals and a Society Bravery Parchment. 

READ MORE: Firefighters receive prestigious awards for saving swimmer's life 

Jonny Burch, Chris Sweeny, Nick Willis and their families

The award was presented by Vice Admiral Jerry Kyd at Government House. 

On 27 October, the heroes could be trading in the Jersey location for Grosvenor House in London, where they'll be treated to a Pride of Britain Awards dinner if they win their category.