Girl of 13 dives fully clothed to rescue of small boy in the Thames . Though she is only 13 years of age , Joan King of Barge House Road , North Woolwich , dived fully dressed into the Thames in an attempt to save a small boy , Gilbert Pliskin of Custom House who fell into the river when playing on the foreshore near Victoria Gardens , North Woolwich . The strong tide carried him about 20 yards from the bank . Joan went to his rescue hearing his cries , but was unable to reach the boy had to be assisted from the water . Gilbert was brought ashore by Mr Frank Dewby of Dagenham , in a boat , and responded to artificial respiration . When she arrived home Joan said nothing about her exploit until her parents scolded her for her wet clothing . Photo shows , Joan King after her rescue attempt . 20 September 1936