The Home Affairs Minister has paid tribute to the bravery of Isle of Man police officers. PC David Schumacher has saved two people from drowning in the past 12 months, the most recent a woman earlier this month from Douglas harbour. DHA Minister Adrian Earnshaw MHK said: 'The remarkable rescue that PC Schumacher effected on October 3 was truly heroic. When the woman was unable to hold onto a life preserver he jumped from the quayside and prevented her from drowning until Coastguard teams could reach her. He suffered the effects of hypothermia and needed hospital treatment, as did the lady who was rescued. Afterwards he returned to duty and finished his shift. ‘Last September, around 3 o'clock on a Sunday morning, PC Schumacher swam 50 metres into the sea to reach a young man who was losing consciousness and brought him back to colleagues at the shore and a waiting ambulance. On that occasion, the officer returned to Lord Street police station, showered and again returned to finish his shift. 'It is an amazing coincidence that one officer was key in two life-saving rescues but consistently, every month, officers are going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the safety of our community. 'In March, PC Adam Hawkes swam 100 metres out to rescue an unconscious man in the sea off Douglas Promenade resulting in the officer suffering the effects of hypothermia and requiring hospital treatment. The man he rescued was in a critical condition but recovered thanks to the actions of PC Hawkes and his colleagues.' The Chief Constable's Annual Report records the year's recipients of Certificates of Commendation. In the year ending in March, they included several certificates to police officers for saving or attempting to save lives and also for courage in the face of a potentially volatile disturbance. Mr Earnshaw added: 'The officers say they are only doing their duty but the Isle of Man can be proud and honoured to be so well served by the Constabulary. For every hero in the spotlight, there are many more who assist or who are ready to take action should the need arise. The Isle of Man is very fortunate to have police officers prepared to rise to the challenge when required and they do. 'I want to take this opportunity of thanking them publicly and recognising their consistent outstanding bravery.' Ends