A teenager who saved the life of a two-year-old girl has been nominated for a Merton Civic Award.

Kevin Fisher, 16, from Mitcham, was fishing on his summer holidays at a lake in Gloucestershire on May 6 last year when the young girl fell into the water.

After hearing her screams Kevin sprung into action and pulled the girl from danger earning him a nomination in the act of courage award category.

Jaison Varghese from Merton Council who nominated Mr Fisher, said: “It was very quiet around the lake. Kevin was out fishing.

“There were two girls age two and five, fishing by the lake with nets.

"Their mother was in the caravan and the five-year-old was looking after the two-year-old. Kevin heard a scream.

"The two-year-old had slipped into the lake and was drowning.

“She went under about three times.

“The five-year-old was screaming for mum she could not hear.

“Kevin rushed to the site and saved the little girl from drowning by pulling her out.”

His bravery was commended by Councillor Maxi Martin, Merton’s cabinet member for children’s services and Yvette Stanley, director of children’s schools and families, earlier this year presented Kevin with a new fishing rod, net and mat during a visit to the civic centre.

Coun Martin said: “I am extremely proud of the bravery Kevin showed to save the life of a young girl.

“This is a testament to his character and all the staff at Merton are proud of him.”