TWO teenagers spent 40 minutes screaming for help after falling into the freezing cold water of the river Severn.

The 17-year-old boys fell into the water after their boat hit an overhanging branch and capsized but they were able to scramble onto the top of their overturned boat before they were rescued by the fire service.

A dog walker called the emergency services after hearing the desperate screams from the boys.

Matt Reynolds said: “I was walking the dog and heard them shouting for help.

“This was two to three minute after they’d capsized. I called 999 and waited until they arrived. They were about five metres away from edge, caught on overhanging branches.

“They were not able to swim to the side as the current was quite fast.

Mr Reynolds said: “I asked their ages so I could pass this to the fire service and ambulance when they arrived. They told me they were 17. 

“I believe they were using the Worcester rowing club boat as that’s who they initially asked for when we came to their aid.

“They explained, whilst rowing, they got caught in the overhanging branch which capsized their boat.

“They couldn’t swim to the side due to the current, or turn the boat over again as it was stuck firm, so both got on top and shouted for help. 

“Once I realised they were stuck and couldn’t get to the side without any help I was rather worried for them.

“I kept hoping someone would row past and help them but, as it was a cold day, it wasn’t very busy on the river.

“The fire brigade came and rescued them. They spent about 40 minutes in the water and were very cold and wet but appeared to be doing ok when they were pulled out.

“I made sure we stayed until they were rescued and all safe and sound. I’m glad they are both ok.”

Mr Reynolds was walking his dog along Camp Lane in Grimley just after 2pm on Saturday when he spotted the distressed boys. 

A spokesman for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: “Five crews – two from Worcester, one from Malvern, one from Redditch and one from Ledbury – as well as the Water First Responder crew from Malvern were called at 2.19pm on December 5 to a rescue from water near the Camp House Inn, Camp Lane, Grimley. 

“After capsizing a rowing boat, two 17-year-old males were rescued from the river by fire service personnel using a water sled. 

“The casualties were handed over to the care of paramedics. Ambulance and police also attended.”

The added the incident was over by 4.30pm