Instructor drowns in underground rescue
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.First Edition
An outdoor pursuits instructor drowned in an underground pool saving the life of a 14-year-old boy.
Graham Lipp, 34, died after becoming trapped while helping the boy to safety, rescuers said yesterday.
Wayne Brown, pulled from the water at Porth-yr-Ogof caves near Ystradfellte, Powys, in the Brecon Beacons, was 'comfortable' at Neath General Hospital where he was being treated for hypothermia and shock.
He was among a party of eight teenagers on an outing on Wednesday organised by the Dolygaer adult education and probation centre, in Merthyr Tydfil.
Police said the boy got into difficulties as the group was leaving a pool in the cave system, which is a popular spot for adventure training courses.
Huw Thomas, of the West Brecon cave rescue team which recovered Mr Lipp's body, said: 'He swam back into the pool to rescue the boy, but got into difficulties himself.
'The current drew him under water and his legs got trapped in some tree roots. He undoubtedly saved the boy's life.'
Mr Lipp had been sucked beneath a rock ledge by the current and trapped in tree roots 12ft down after helping to hand over the unconscious boy.
Wayne's father, Phillip Brown, said: 'I feel deeply indebted for what that man did to save my son. He gave his life and I really can't imagine what his family are going through now.'
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments