Local Hero Saves Dog from River

A man from Chester became a local hero yesterday when he rescued a dog from the River Dee. Mark Thompson, 34, was jogging near the river at about 7:30 in the morning when he heard a dog barking loudly. He looked down and saw a small brown dog in the water. The dog was trying to swim, but the current was too strong. "I didn't think about it. I just jumped in," said Mark. The water was very cold, but Mark swam to the dog quickly and brought it back to the bank. The dog's owner, Mrs. Patricia Wells, was very grateful. "I was walking Biscuit when he saw a duck and ran into the river. I was so scared. Mark is a real hero," she said. Mark said he was happy to help. "I love dogs. I'm just glad Biscuit is safe," he added with a smile. Local police remind people to keep their dogs on a lead near the river.