Police are stepping up patrols at a Wiltshire beauty spot after youths were seen swimming in a ‘dangerous’ weir on the River Marden.
Officers say between 20 and 30 young people and adults have been entering the water near Castlefields Park in Calne amid the ongoing May half-term heatwave.
PCSO Sheppard noted the activity at Keevil’s Weir during their visit on Tuesday (27 May).
The force has issued a warning over the risks of river swims – highlighting the three separate drownings in West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire and Warwickshire on on Bank Holiday Monday.
PCSO Mark Cook said: “While we do not wish to spoil anyone’s enjoyment of the fine weather, we would like to give a timely reminder of the dangers associated with attempting to swim or bathe in the weir and surrounding stretches of water.
“The weir itself has extremely strong and often unseen undercurrents. Combined with submerged objects and steep riverbanks, this makes the area particularly hazardous.
“In addition, despite several days of hot weather, the water remains extremely cold and could cause cold water shock.
“Although we have thankfully only recently received a small number of reports of incidents locally, other areas of the country have unfortunately seen tragedies involving both children and adults swimming in open water. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.
“Several years ago, we requested that lifesaving equipment be installed locally for emergency use should it ever be required. Although this equipment remains in place, it could still take emergency services longer to reach some of the more isolated locations.
“Due to the increase in visitors to our waterways, and with the school holidays approaching, we will be increasing patrols in this and other locations.
“If you intend to visit this location, please follow the safety warning signs, look after one another, let parents or guardians know where you are going, and take any rubbish home with you.”
Police said they are increasing patrols around waterways ahead of the school holidays as temperatures continue to rise.
