River Derwent: Man trapped under water at weir dies

Crews were called to the River Derwent, off Raynesway, to reports of three men in the water

A 25-year-old man has died after becoming trapped under water at a weir on the River Derwent in Derby.

Crews were called to the river known locally as Pebble Beach, off Raynesway, at 18:59 BST on Saturday after reports of three men in the water.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said crews had managed to locate him but "sadly the man has passed away".

The service has re-issued a warning to people of the dangers of open water as UK temperatures hit record highs.

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The fire service re-issued warnings about the dangers of open water

Station manager Paul Green said: "Our crews were mobilised to assist three males who were in the water, at an area known locally as Pebble Beach along the River Derwent.

"One of the group had got into difficulty and had become trapped under the water on the weir.

"Firefighters and specialist swift water rescue teams worked together to locate the man before handing him into the care of paramedics. Sadly the man has passed away."

Mr Green added it was "a tragic incident" and "thoughts and sympathy are extended to the family and friends of the deceased at this extremely sad and distressing time".

The fire service warned that swimming in open water could be "extremely dangerous".

"The water is much cooler in rivers, reservoirs and quarries," a spokesperson said.

"So much so, that it can force your body to go into shock, causing muscle cramps and breathing difficulties."

Open water dangers

• Hidden currents

• Fast flowing water, beware of locks and weirs

• Deep water

• Hidden dangers, such as rubbish and debris, this can trap, snag or cut

• No lifeguards, most outdoor waterways do not have lifeguards

Source: Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service