Marion Brown and William ‘Bill’ Norman

TWO neighbours who rushed to rescue a five-year-old girl have been commended by the Metropolitan Police.

Marion Brown and William “Bill” Norman were first to the scene after Malika Hibu went missing from her home in February last year, just metres from the Regent’s Canal.

Mr Norman told the Tribune that he was inside when he heard a commotion and screams from his neighbour, Ms Brown.

“Someone said ‘has anyone looked in the canal?’,” he said. “I looked and saw her in the canal and jumped in, holding her above my head while I was in the water.”

He added: “I then couldn’t get out of the canal – something came over me. I just stood and held onto the railings.”

Paramedics took Malika from Mr Norman and administered CPR, but they were unable to resuscitate her, and she died later in hospital.

Chief Inspector Katie Bradley commended the pair for their bravery and quick response.

“Their actions were really a truly exceptional example of two people taking unselfish actions to help people unknown to them to try and save life,” she said.

When asked what the award meant to him, Mr Norman said: “I’d rather the little girl still be here. I kept drinking for three days after. It really took its toll.”

The pair were the only members of the public joining 70 police officers to be recognised for their outstanding service in the Borough Commander’s Commendation Awards.

A total of 20 awards were given, including investigations into sexual abuse cases, drug rings, and preventing attempted suicide by members of the public.

Chief Superintendent Andrew Carter, who led the ceremony, also announced his retirement after 32 years of service.

He told the Tribune about the importance of the awards: “Our officers are doing inspirational work to keep people safe, but they’re just doing their jobs. It’s important that people are thanked formally for their efforts so they can keep going.

“It’s also important for family and friends that they are acknowledged.”

Addressing a packed auditorium in London Metropolitan University in his closing speech, he said: “I know how fragile our morale is at the moment, but we have to take strength when we hear things like this and keep going forward.”