WARNINGS have been issued today to children on their school holidays not to play in North Yorkshire rivers or lakes.

The Underwater Search Unit for North Yorkshire Police said youngsters should avoid areas of water in order to avoid tragedy.

The warning comes after a schoolboy died this week in the River Tees, near Cleasby, after getting into difficulties while swimming.

Peter Bainbridge, head of the diving team, said: "North Yorkshire is packed with rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs and flooded quarries that look perfect for a cooling dip.

"The worst point of my job is recovering the bodies of young people who thought it would be fun to swim in a river or lake. Quite simply - cold water kills.

"Children are naturally bursting to get out into the fresh air, but parents must get through to them the enormous dangers that go with swimming in rivers and lakes."

Mr Banbridge said a particular problem with the River Ouse is the hidden perils. He said: "It is actually an offence to swim in it. Despite its placid appearance, the Ouse runs fast and deep, with many unexpected currents. It is also a dumping ground for rubbish which lies hidden under the water until some rash jumper or diver makes sudden contact.

"Particularly at risk are the youngsters who every year jump from the bridges. If they don't hit some hard or sharp debris under the water they could dive head-first onto the deck of a boat coming through."

ENDS