Despite not being able to swim, the 8-year-old jumped into the water to help the older boy who was in trouble.
While the UK experienced record-high temperatures, the kids were enjoying the cool water of Perth’s Moncreiffe Island in the River Tay.
In the water, Cayden Peterson had run into trouble and screamed. When no one else rushed to help him after Tierney heard his screams, she threw herself into the water without thinking twice.
While they waited for assistance, she was able to keep his head above water.
According to the Daily Record, Tierney’s mother Kerry described her as “incredibly brave, calm, and simply amazing” for what she did.
Tierney Batt, 8, waded into the River Tay in Perthhttps://t.co/xVzIK50gDL
— The Daily Record (@Daily_Record) July 27, 2021
She continued, “For a young child she did something some adults might not have thought about,” she added.
“I can’t express just how grateful I am – things could have been very different if she hadn’t helped him.
“She put herself in a situation of danger too, so I’m just so happy they’re both okay.”
Greig, Tierney’s father, expressed admiration for his daughter’s bravery while also expressing his own fear.
According to the Daily Record, he said, “Proud isn’t the word.”
“The whole family were so nice, they thanked us so much and Kerry sent me a message on Facebook just saying how grateful they were.”
Another water hero. Second this week. Glad to live in such a caring community!
— Perth and Kinross Greens (@Perth_Greens) July 27, 2021
‘She was incredibly brave’: Girl, 8, helps save boy after getting into trouble in River Tay a… https://t.co/pFtXWyc3J6 via @thecourieruk
‘All of a sudden it dropped,’ Kerry cautioned people to exercise caution when near water, even if they are strong swimmers.
She remarked: “The water might look still and you might think it’s not too deep, but my son had his feet on the bottom of the river.
“All of a sudden it dropped and he couldn’t touch the bottom, and there was an undercurrent.”