Tribute to Junior Slater
The family of 12-year-old Junior Slater, who died after encountering difficulties while swimming in a river, described him as their "little blue-eyed boy". Junior, from Clayton-le-Woods, Chorley, Lancashire, was swimming with friends at the River Ribble in Ribchester around 14:00 BST on Tuesday, according to Lancashire Police.
Following a major search operation that included an underwater unit, his body was recovered shortly before 20:00.
In a statement released by police, Junior's family expressed their grief and affection, calling him the "life and soul of our lives" and stating he would be "truly missed". They are receiving support from specially trained officers and have requested privacy during this difficult time.
"Our little blue-eyed boy.
He will be truly missed. He was the life and soul of our lives.
Words can't describe how we are feeling right now. We will forever love you Junior."
Investigation and Context
Police have confirmed that Junior's death is not being treated as suspicious. A file will be submitted to the coroner in due course.
This tragic incident is among several fatal water-related accidents involving children during the recent heatwave, prompting authorities to issue warnings about the dangers of swimming in open water.
Water Safety Concerns
Rebecca Ramsay, a water safety campaigner whose son Dylan drowned at Hill Top Quarry in Chorley, Lancashire, in 2011, expressed her sorrow for families affected by similar tragedies.
"I am heartbroken for all the families who are now enduring my nightmare."
She emphasized that all open water beauty spots could pose serious risks and urged people not to take chances with their lives.
Water Temperature and Safety Advice
The Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) highlighted that warmer weather often leads to an increase in accidental drownings. They cautioned that despite higher air temperatures, water temperatures remain very cold, which can cause cold water shock, making swimming more difficult and escape from the water harder.
Jim Bridge from the Greater Manchester Water Safety Partnership advised those struggling in water to "float to live." Speaking on BBC Breakfast, he explained:
"Lie on your back with your head back, with your ears submerged, use your arms and legs to stabilise yourself and just let your breathing come back to a normal breathing pattern.
And when you're feeling confident that you've gotten used to the water and your breathing's normal, you can shout for help or swim to save yourself."
Additional Information
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