South Yorkshire Times, August 27th, 1960

Split Second Decision

Saved his Friend’s Life

A split second decision taken by, a 13-years-old Kilnhurst boy on Monday averted what could have been the village’s second drowning fatality in two weeks.

Roger Kinsley, son of Mr. and Mrs. A. Tinsley, of 23, Wharf Road Kilnhurst and friend, John Haythorne of 25, Beighton Road, Kilnhurst, were cycling home along the local canal towpath. John was riding In front, and the front wheel of his cycle hit a pot-hole, throwing non swimmer John over the handlebars and into the canal.

Not being a very strong swimmer himself, Roger realised that if he went into the water after his heavier friend, it might result in them both losing their lives. The nearest house was over 200 yards away. Roger quickly slipped of his coat and waded into the water edge. Anchoring himself to the bank he held on to the sleeve of his coat and threw it to his struggling friend.

John grabbed the makeshift life-line and  pulled himself to the bank.

Only two weeks ago an eight year-old boy fell into a local pond and was drowned.