Hero Brian

SINGER Brian McFadden was hailed a hero last night after saving a boy from drowning while on holiday.

The former Westlife star leapt into a lake at Dubai's plush Jabel Ali Golf Resort when the 10-year-old fell in.

Members of the EUR200-a-round course watched in terror as Brian frantically battled to pull him to safety.

The 26-year-old star told the Irish Daily Mirror last night: "It was pretty scary. The kid was gasping for air when I got him out of the lake.

"My instant reaction was just to jump in. Anyone else would have done the same.

"I had no idea how deep the water was until I jumped in - the kid could have drowned."

The boy is believed to have been trying to fish out balls from the lake and sell them to golfers.

He fell down a steep bank and his friend screamed for help. But within seconds the child had disappeared under the water.

Brian was enjoying a week in the sunshine resort before launching his new single in Ireland. A pal of Brian's added: "He was in shock for about three hours after saving the boy. Brian feared the worst had happened initially.

"There are signs warning how deep the water is but the child hadn't paid attention. Brian was completely drenched and gasping for air when he got out. A course official took him back to the spa complex where he had a shower and was given a change of clothes.

"All the golfers were hailing him as a hero and patting him on the back.

"The child could hardly speak a word of English but he gave Brian a big hug."

Brian paid around EUR2,000 to play unlimited golf and enjoy the facilities at the Jabel Ali resort during the trip with his girlfriend Delta Goodrem.

The five-star complex boasts an 800-metre private beach, a sea water pool and 80-berth marina.

Brian was hoping for a drama-free break as he prepares to relaunch his pop career with a tour of Ireland. His new single Only A Woman Can is released next Friday.

He will be appearing at radio stations and record shops at venues including Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway.

The Mirror