POLICE want to trace a hero who saved a six-year-old boy from drowning in Southend’s lagoon.

The mystery man jumped fully clothed into the attraction on Western Esplanade just before 6pm on Wednesday.

The lad had got into difficulties while paddling in the pool as other members of his family played nearby.

The boy, who could not swim, wandered in to a two metre deep section and struggled to keep afloat before disappearing under the water.

The rescuer, who was nearby and watching his own son swimming in the lagoon, jumped in and quickly brought the boy to safety.

Patrolling police officers were quickly on scene and called for an ambulance and the boy, from Peckham, south London, was checked by paramedics.

He was found to have made a full recovery and was taken home by his mother.

The man then disappeared- because his own son was desperate to visit Adventure Island.

Sgt Ian Hughes, of Southend police, said: "The man saw what happened and just jumped in and brought the struggling boy to safety.

“There is no doubt that he saved the boy from drowning and deserves to be recognised for his quick-thinking and bravery.

"Unfortunately he left the scene soon after the rescue because his own son wanted to go on a ride at Adventure Island.

“His clothes were soaking wet but he wanted to make sure his son had that ride.

"We hope that he will come forward and will contact me at Southend police station on 101.”

An ambulance service spokesman confirmed the boy had not needed further treatment.

He said: “The ambulance service received a call at 6.12pm yesterday to Western Esplanade, Westcliff, to a report of a child being rescued from the water.

“A rapid response vehicle and ambulance crew attended to a boy who was out of the water and conscious and breathing.

“He was assessed at the scene, but did not require transport to hospital.”