A second chance

FOUR years ago a nightmarish saga played out in Newcastle – but one with an uplifting ending.

Frazer McKenzie’s attempt to end his life by jumping into the River Tyne resulted him becoming lodged in the mud – still very much alive, but at the mercy of the incoming tide.

Luckily, Frazer had been spotted and the fire service was called.

Firefighters Tommy Richardson and Martin Scott dug him clear just before the waters returned.

Now Frazer has met the two firefighters to thank them for their work on a night so dreadful parts of it have gone from his memory.

Well done, of course, to Tommy and Martin – brave and resourceful men who did outstanding work that night.

But well done too to Frazer for talking about it. His life was saved that night – but he still had a long road to travel to recover his mental health. He is proof that, even after such despair, second chances are possible.