Victory Quarry: Swimming warning after man's body found

Police and firefighters recovered the man's body from Victory Quarry, Dove Holes, Derbyshire

A man's body has been recovered from a flooded quarry, prompting the fire service to warn against swimming in open water during hot weather.

The man was reported missing after getting into difficulties at Victory Quarry in Derbyshire on Sunday.

Police and firefighters spent four hours searching before his body was found at about 23:00 BST.

The fire service described his death as a "tragic incident" and said flooded quarries were particularly dangerous.

Group manager Paul Hawker said: "The thoughts and sympathy of everyone from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and all involved are with the family and friends of the deceased at this distressing time.

"With the hot weather set to continue and lockdown restrictions now lifted, we know people will be out and about enjoying the sunshine but ask that people stay safe and stay out of the water."

The fire service said there were also more than 200 people at Waterswallows Quarry, not far from Victory Quarry, on the same day.

Mr Hawker said flooded quarries were dangerous because the depth can change quite suddenly.

Most drowning deaths in 2020 happened at inland open waters, such as Victory Quarry

He also advised people to stay out of rivers, reservoirs, and other open water sources during hot weather.

"No matter how warm the weather is, the water remains cold which can cause the body to go into cold water shock, making it difficult for even the strongest swimmer," he said.

Most drowning deaths male

Jane Nickerson, chief executive of Swim England, advised people not to try open water swimming on their own.

"For those wanting to try open water swimming, we would encourage you to visit an accredited or recognised open water venue where staff can help you with safety advice and help you get accustomed to swimming outdoors," she said.

"Open water might look particularly inviting on a hot summer's day but there are many hidden dangers which can sadly have tragic consequences."

A total of 254 people died in accidental drownings in 2020 - a rise of 31 compared with 2019.

Of those deaths 78% were males, and 58% of the locations were inland open waters such as rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs and quarries.

Swim England has published safety advice on its website, which includes wearing a wetsuit to manage exposure to cold water.

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