Reservoir to shut to public during weekend heatwave

Bristol Water fears people could get into difficulty if they try to swim in Cheddar Reservoir

Members of the public will be barred from a major reservoir this weekend to prevent them jumping into the water during the forecast heatwave.

Access to the permissive path at Cheddar Reservoir in Somerset will be suspended from sunset on Thursday until Monday morning.

Bristol Water, which operates the site, said the decision was made as part of its routine water safety practice during extreme heat.

The company apologised to visitors, but said it wanted to avoid putting extra pressure on the emergency services.

Reservoirs can be dangerous due to currents caused by pumping machinery, hidden underwater structures and their depth.

Their steep sides often make it difficult for swimmers to get out.

"With the extreme heat, and very little shade around the reservoir's permissive path, we want everyone to stay safe," Bristol Water said.

"We know the water can look very tempting on hot days, but it can be extremely dangerous and we don't want any extra pressure on the emergency services on what will already be a very busy few days for them."