TWO Sedgemoor District Councillors have been hailed 'heroes' after they saved a lady who fell in the canal in Bridgwater.

Council employee, Sam Harper, and town mayor, Councillor Leigh Redman, were both cycling along the canal after work on April 20.

A local woman, who was also cycling, knocked her head on the underside of the canal bridge, lost control of her bike and fell into the canal.

Sam dived into the canal to help rescue her, with the pair praised for their 'quick thinking.'

The woman's grandfather, who did not wish to be named, said: "My granddaughter was cycling home from work when she hit her head on the Taunton Road bridge.

"Leigh is a family friend and it was so fortunate that he and Sam were both there.

"She was panicking and Sam jumped into the river to help her.

"He got her out, thank goodness, and she was seen by an ambulance but has suffered no ill effect,

"She was extremely lucky and the councillors are heroes to my family and I thank their quick thinking."

Sam Harper said he is pleased he could help.

"I was just on my way home when I noticed the lady had fallen into the canal under Taunton road bridge, she was unable to get out of the canal having hit her head and I knew I had to stop and help," he said.

"Luckily for me, Councillor Redman was also cycling along the path.

"Having a soak in the canal was not what I imagined doing after work but I am pleased I could help. I am really pleased that she is ok".

Councillor Redman is taking this 'lucky' opportunity to remind cyclists to wear a helmet.

He said: "Whilst is it nice we have been thanked for our actions I hope that anyone would step up when needed, I'd like to take this opportunity to remind cyclists to wear a cycle helmet.

"If they are unsure, dismount and walk under low bridges.

"Having said that, the canal is a beautiful walk or cycle route and one many local residents enjoy.

"Thankfully the lady in question is okay and I am glad both Sam and I happened to be passing and could help."