A SHY schoolboy who raced against time and tide to save his step-father and younger sister from drowning has been praised for his bravery.

Cut off by a racing incoming tide, their backs against a sheer 250ft high wall of cliffs, escape would have been impossible for 42-year-old Stephen Callander and his step-daughter six-year-old Danielle Barker had it not been for the bravery of her brother Mark Barker.

The slightly built youngster plunged into the icy cold North Sea for a 200-metre swim to the shore for help, to save his sister and Mr Callander.

He swam sideways against the current, crossing three deep and treacherous gullies capable of washing an adult out to sea.

He struggled ashore near the Ship Inn, in Saltburn, and stopped a man and a woman, who were walking their dog, to get help.

They called the Redcar lifeboat, stationed three and a half miles away.

The family had been winkle-picking at the foot of Saltburn cliff when they were cut off by the incoming tide last September.

Redcar Lifeboat spokesman Dave Cammish said: "The emergency services rely on the public for help, and but for the heroic actions of this little lad, no one would have known of the family's plight.

"This little girl and their step-father were in great jeopardy.

"It was pretty tight. There was not a lot of time left. Those cliffs are sheer for 250ft and offer no escape.

"It was fantastic what the little lad was able to do in alerting the emergency services. The RNLI are delighted that his heroism is being recognised and would want to be associated with congratulating him."

Mark, 12, from South Bank, near Middlesbrough, was yesterday presented with a certificate on vellum from the Royal Humane Society - the highest bravery award it can make.

He also received an award from the Association of Chief Police Officers, which included a cheque for £150.

The presentations were made by Cleveland Chief Constable Sean Price who said he felt "honoured" to be able to recognise his bravery.

Mark's mother, Andrea, said: "I'm very proud of him. It was a terrifying ordeal for them all. Mark couldn't see the rescue and he was panicking until the lifeboat brought them out."

Mark said: "I just tried to get help for them. It was hard," he said, recalling his swim against the current.

He is going to share the money with his sister, but plans to buy a pair of trainers with his share.