York river safety plea after man pulled from water

The man was pulled from the water near Ouse Bridge on Thursday, police say

Police officers who helped rescue a man from a river in York have urged people to familiarise themselves with the location of lifesaving equipment.

North Yorkshire Police said "large crowds" had gathered on Ouse Bridge, but nobody threw in a life ring despite two being accessible "within metres".

The man was eventually helped to safety by two police officers and a North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue team.

A force spokesperson said he was recovering in hospital.

The rescue happened at about 15:00 GMT on Thursday, near the rear of the Radisson hotel.

Sgt Toby Greenwood, who attended the scene, said: "Life rings and other flotation devices are located at regular intervals along the River Ouse and other major waterways.

"It's always worth making a mental note of life ring locations along your local river in case you ever need to help someone in trouble.

"Flotation aids allow you to do this while minimising the danger to yourself, which is also important.

"Those vital seconds can make all the difference."