A Garda sergeant has been hailed a hero after diving into Dublin’s Royal Canal to rescue a five-year-old girl.

Sergeant Daniel Eccles, based at Pearse Street station, was cycling to work along the canal at Charleville Mall on Tuesday evening when he spotted the young girl, named Livie, cycle her bike straight into the canal.

Livie had been with her brother and parents, who were a short distance away at the time.

Without hesitation, Sergeant Eccles dumped his own bike and jumped into the Royal Canal to reach Livie, who was under the water.

He brought the child to the surface and to the side of the canal, where her father was able to take her out of the water.

Gardaí confirmed that everyone is well following the incident.

‘Gardaí are committed to keeping people safe,’ the force said in a statement.

The rescue took place at approximately 6.30pm on Tuesday April 28, along a stretch of the canal that runs through Dublin’s north inner city.

The Royal Canal towpath is popular with cyclists, joggers and families, particularly during the brighter evenings.

It’s the latest in a series of incidents highlighting the quick-thinking actions of off-duty and on-duty Gardaí in emergency situations.

Sergeant Eccles’ actions have drawn widespread praise on social media since the story emerged.

‘The thought of losing that little sweetheart gives one the shakes,’ one person said.

‘Garda actions saved the family and community a lifetime of trauma.

‘Relief knowing this loving family have a new friend forever.’