A fisherman became an immediate local hero yesterday morning as he sprang into action to rescue a dog close to drowning in the icy waters of Bushy Park.

Jason Biggin, of Twickenham, was enjoying a typical Sunday morning catch when he was alerted by a concerned couple watching a dog struggling in the water of Bushy Park's Heron Pond at around 11.30am.

With the owners in no immediate site, the 36-year-old leapt into action to rescue the dog who had become stuck in the iced-out section of the pond after attempting to chase a flock of birds.

Jason retrieves the dog from Bushy Park's Heron Pond.

Mr Biggin told Nub News: "I overheard a couple passing by saying 'oh my god, oh my god, where's the owner? The dog's drowning!', fortunately I had my waders on me in case I ever have to enter the water for my fishing, so I was able to act quickly.

"I knew how to get to the dog safely as I have been fishing at Bushy Park for many years and know the depths of the waters and what lies underneath it. The dog was panicking and no more than thirty seconds away from drowning but thankfully I was able to successfully retrieve him and return him to his owner safely."

Video courtesy of Claudia Syrad

Mr Biggin, who, during his time as a former lifeguard carried out over 100 rescues, added the gratitude he has received from residents has been overwhelming but reiterated the dangers the waters can pose in freezing temperatures.

The Twickenham resident continued: "It's obviously been special seeing the messages flood through on social media and my friends get in touch but I'm just grateful I was able to get to the dog in time, on another day the incident could have led to a tragic outcome whether a dog or young child.

"The ice is incredibly dangerous and dog owners and parents of course need to be extra vigilant."

The dog had fallen into the water having ran across the ice indicated by the yellow arrow, Jason was able to safely retrieve the dog as he approached from the non-frozen section of Heron Pond in his waders.

Local resident Claudia Syrad, who witnessed Mr Biggins heroics, added: "The poor dog was really struggling and visibly becoming increasingly tired and dangerously close to drowning, if Jason had not been so quick to react I dread to think what would have happened."

Across the eight royal parklands, including Bushy Park, dogs must be kept on leads at all times near water and roadways, as well as during the deer birthing season from May through to July.

The Royal Parks Police took to social media last night reminding members of the public of the dangers ice can pose to children and dogs.

Writing on Twitter the Parks Police said: "We are aware of a dog that fell through the ice at Bushy Park today; which had to be rescued by a fisherman, as well as being sent photos of children on the ice.

"Do not let your children or dogs go onto the ice; it's dangerous. Put your dogs on a lead by the ponds."