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James Cracknell And Son Rescue Drowning Pair

Olympic rower James Cracknell and his 11-year-old son Croyde have been dubbed the "Crackers A team" after reportedly saving a seven-year-old boy and his grandfather from drowning in the sea.

The double gold medallist was surfing with his son when they rushed to the aid of the boy and his grandfather who had been swept away by a rip tide, Cracknell's wife, TV and radio presenter Beverly Turner, said.

The drama is said to have unfolded on Sunday, off a beach at Croyde Bay in north Devon, near to where the Cracknells' have a holiday home.

According to Turner's Twitter posts, the seven-year-old boy told Cracknell during the rescue: "I'm 7. I'm too young to die."

His grandfather was apparently shocked when he realised who his rescuer was.

Turner tweeted: "Everyone walked away, shaken but fine. The nearly-drowned grandad: 'that lad on that board saved my life' + 'bloody hell. It's the rower!

The broadcaster praised her son for remaining "cool, quick thinking, kind and brave" during the incident, and proudly described her family as the "Crackers A team".

Cracknell also wrote: "Eventful day with my little man on beach. Thankfully everyone safe, God to be able to help & so proud of my lad."

The rower reportedly swam to the aid of the boy, while Croyde helped rescue the older man.

The 43-year-old is one of Britain’s most successful athletes. He won two Olympic gold medals in 2000 and 2004, has six World Championship titles and was awarded an OBE in 2004.