A HEROIC police officer saved a youngster from drowning.

PC Lewis Aleta was in Castle Park when he saw a teenager struggling in the water in the Middle Mill area.

Realising the teen could not swim, PC Aleta hurled himself in and dragged them to safety.

Colchester's district commander Chief Insp Rob Huddleston hailed the officer.

"Well done, putting yourself at risk to save another is truly brave and in the highest tradition for the police service you should be proud of your actions," he said.