Bonhill boy hailed a hero after rescuing his grandad

Jul 10 2009 by Tina Kemp, Lennox Herald (main ed)

A BRAVE Bonhill boy was hailed a mini hero by his proud family this week after risking his life to save his grandad from a river.

Ten-year-old Connor Stevenson scrambled down a crumbling embankment to haul the pensioner to safety.

James Stevenson, 69, slipped into the river at Bridge of Weir on Saturday afternoon after the riverbank gave way.

He screamed at Connor to run for help – but instead the courageous youngster raced back and grabbed hold of his grandpa, pulling him out of danger.

This week James, still badly bruised from his ordeal, said: “I’d never have got out if I’d been on my own. He’s a real hero.”

Ladyton Primary pupil Connor was staying the weekend with James and gran Sally at their home in Bridge of Weir when the incident happened.

James said: “We had gone for a walk along the heritage cycle track and were on our way back when the embankment gave way and I fell into the river. I was screaming at Connor to run for help as I thought the rest of the embankment might give way.

“But instead he ran back, put his arm around a tree and held on to my hand, and I managed to claw my way up the embankment.

“How he held on I just don’t know. I would never have got out if I’d been myself. I’m still a bit shaken up and quite bruised. I’m so proud of what Connor did.”

Connor, of Nobleston, admitted he was scared but didn’t want to abandon his grandpa.

He said: “I was walking in front of him when I heard him shout. The embankment had caved in so I ran back, grabbed on to a tree, grabbed his arm and just pulled.”

Connor’s mum, Helen, described her son as “just fantastic”. She said: “When his grandpa phoned and explained what had happened I was so chuffed. I’m so proud of him.

“He’s only 10. I thought he’d have run and got his gran or someone close to the house but he held on.”

This is not the first time Connor has come to the rescue of someone in trouble. His mum said: “A woman collapsed as he was coming out of school one day and he ran and got her husband. He’s good like that. I’m really pleased with him.”

James now plans to write to Ladyton Primary to tell them of Connor’s bravery – and to present them with a cheque for their favourite charity in recognition of his actions.