An experienced boatmaster had a lucky escape after slipping and falling into the Leeds-Liverpool canal this morning.

John Webster had been in the canal for up to an hour when he was spotted by a passer-by who raised the alarm.

The drama started shortly before 6.40am when Shipley firefighters were called to Apollo Canal Waterways in Wharfe Street, Shipley. Mr Webster was pulled from the water at 6.52am.

Sub-officer Richard Hewitt said: "He had been in the water between half an hour and an hour. He was suffering from shock, was very cold and slightly incoherent.

"He had been attending to his boat, the Hebble, which he lives on, and slipped in. He couldn't get out, probably because of his age - I would say he is between 60 and 65 years old. He is quite a big bloke and was fully clothed.

"It was quite fortunate for him that he was spotted because not many people frequent that area. His cries for help went unheard. He survived by holding onto the anchor lines that tie the boat to the quayside."

Fred Harris, proprietor of Apollo Canal Cruises, said: "John is an experienced boatmaster and operates our canal boats.

"Of all people he would be aware of the risks but it can be slippy first thing in the morning.

"He has worked for us for about four years and he does live on the boat."

Firefighters were able to reach forward and pull Mr Webster to safety before he was treated by paramedics.

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