A FORMER international boxer who leapt into the sea to save a disabled boy from drowning yesterday said: "I wasn't scared and I would do it again".

Mamoun Alkour spent 45 minutes in the cold North Sea battling strong currents and waves to reach the teenager, who drifted out from the coast at Seaham, County Durham.

Lifeboat crews had to pluck Mamoun and the 13-year-old autistic boy from the sea after they were dragged towards Featherbed Rock.

They were hoisted into a rescue helicopter from RAF Boulmer and flown to Newcastle Royal Victoria Infirmary where they were treated for hypothermia before being released.

Recovering from Friday's drama at his Easington Colliery home, Syrian-born Mamoun, 49, said his main concern was for the boy.

The father-of-two said: "I was having a walk with my girlfriend when somebody said a boy was in trouble.

"I was scared about him. I wanted to get to the boy regardless of the consequences because someone's life was at risk.

"I knew he was struggling and distressed, so my instinct told me to try and do something about it."

The former merchant seaman said his fitness, which comes from his days with the Syrian national boxing team, had helped him in the water.

He said: "I was fine, but a little bit cold after so much time in the water.

"I just wanted the boy to be all right.

"I wasn't scared and I would do it again. I live to try and help people. I don't want any award. If my help is required I will do it."

Mamoun's girlfriend, Michelle Peary, watched the rescue from the shore.

A coastguard officer who waded into the sea to reach the pair was treated at the scene by paramedics but did not need hospital treatment.

A Durham Police spokesman said both Mamoun and the boy had a lucky escape, and repeated a warning to swimmers.

He said: "Although the weather may be fine, the sea is still cold at this time of year and can quickly catch out the unsuspecting bather, whether by the strong currents or hypothermia.