A WOMAN with learning difficulties has been hailed a heroine after rescuing a little girl from a swimming pool while on holiday in Spain.

Valerie Jolly, of The Lodge, Leyland Lane, Leyland, was staying in Villa Marina, Salou, on the east coast of the country, when the incident happened.

The 44-year-old was at the poolside when she spotted the three-year-old toddler struggling in the water.

Although the youngster was wearing a lifebelt, she had become stuck under the water after turning upside down.

Realising the toddler was in danger Valerie, who cannot swim, went into the pool and pulled her out of the water.

Pool attendants and the child's parents, from Durham, arrived shortly afterwards and the little girl was given the all clear.

But Catherine Roberts, house parent at The Lodge, who witnessed the incident two weeks ago, said the situation could have been a lot worse if Valerie had not acted quickly.

"There is no doubt that the little girl could have drowned if it were not for Valerie's actions," she said. "We are all very proud of her here. She was very brave."

Although Valerie was shocked by the incident she said she could not have stood by and done nothing.

"Even though I can't swim I knew I had to do something to save the little girl," said Valerie, who volunteers three mornings a week at St John's playgroup, Leyland Lane.

"I clung on to the side of the pool and reached for her ring and then pulled her up and managed to get her to the side."

Valerie's mother Jean Colton, of Lowerfield, Farington, added: "I'm very proud of her. It was a big achievement for Valerie because she has learning difficulties."