A Musselburgh man is being hailed as a hero after leaping into a freezing river to save another man believed to be a dementia sufferer.
The incident happened on Sunday 20 October in the East Lothian town, just a few miles along the coast from Edinburgh, sparking a big emergency response.
Bystanders said that local man Jason Reilly didn't hesitate in jumping into the river to save the person in distress, but forgot that he had his phone in his pocket, which was broken during the rescue.
One woman who witnessed the brave event, which happened on the Fisherrow side of the Roman Bridge, and said: "Met Jason yesterday, his immediate thought to help a person in need was selfless. Good job Jason."
Today (21 October), a friend posted on Facebook to say that Jason: "Jumped into the freezing water yesterday to save an older gentleman. Due to his fast reactions he jumped in with all his possessions. His mobile is now not working so has anyone got a spare mobile lying about he could use?"
He was pictured wrapped in a foil blanket and speaking to police after his display of bravery, holding his trainers in one hand.
Shortly after the phone appeal was shared, another local woman posted on the page, saying:
"Jason please go into Tesco Musselburgh between 2-5pm. Ask for Brian the manager of the mobile phone department. Tesco are going to donate a phone to you."
His colleague - also called Jason - posted a photo of himself with Mr Reilly at their workplace, saying:
"Hi there everyone a work beside Jason he is overwhelmed with all the support and comments."
Many other people called for Jason to receive a medal for his actions, and hundreds of others sent him their well wishes, saying that he had done the East Lothian town proud.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Emergency services were contacted around 1720 hrs on Sunday 20 October re: a man in the water under the Roman Bridge. He was rescued and taken by ambulance to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary."
Edinburgh Live have reached out to Jason for more information - however, we'll have to wait for Jason to collect his new phone before we can have a chat. Watch this space!
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