Body of boy, 17, found after Staffordshire lake search

Search teams were looking for the boy alongside colleagues from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service

A body has been found in the search for a boy who went missing at a lake in Staffordshire.

Emergency services were called to Rudyard Lake, near Leek, at about 21:30 GMT on Saturday, after three boys were spotted in the water.

Two of the boys managed to get out and were taken to hospital, Staffordshire Police said.

The force said the body of a 17-year-old boy was found just after 17:00 and his family were being supported.

Ch Insp Mark Barlow said: "Our thoughts and condolences are very much with the boy's family at this distressing time.

"A large number of officers and emergency service personnel have been working around the clock and through the night since this was first reported to us.

"I'd like to thank the members of the public who respected the cordon and avoided the area whilst we worked at the scene.

"This is a tragic case and one which I know will cause a great deal of sorrow in the local community. Our priority now is about making sure we can do everything possible to support the boy's family."

The surrounding area was closed to the public while the search continued

Rudyard Lake is home to Rudyard Sailing Club which provides water sports activities.

Speaking earlier, Jane Hill, a senior club member, said the water "goes very, very deep, very, very, quickly".

She said people should not go into the water in cold temperatures without thermal protection.