Hayden Jones-Powell, a 13-year-old boy, died after getting into difficulty while swimming in Meynell Lake in Fosse Way, Leicestershire, on 25 June 2026. The incident occurred as temperatures in the region exceeded 35°C, with the UK experiencing a severe heatwave.
Family pays tribute
Hayden's family described him as a "cheeky, gorgeous" boy who "had everything in life going for him." In a statement, they said: "Hayden was a cheeky, gorgeous, 13 year old boy. He supported West Brom Albion, loved animals, was a great friend and had everything in life going for him. Without warning he was taken from us on the 25th of June."
He was remembered as a "beautiful, loving soul" who went to the lake with friends after school to cool off. The family added: "Hayden was like any other teenage boy who just went to the lake to paddle with his friends. He wanted to cool from the heat and enjoy the cool water; getting some respite from the heatwave after school. Tragically, Hayden got into trouble and he never made it home to his loving family consisting of a dad, two older brothers, an older sister and his mum."
Police response and investigation
Leicestershire Police were called to Meynell Lake at approximately 1:30pm on 25 June. Police divers recovered Hayden's body from the water. The force stated there are no suspicious circumstances, and a file will be prepared for the coroner to determine the full circumstances of the death.
Fundraiser launched
The family launched a fundraiser to give Hayden "a beautiful send-off." As of 26 June, the page had raised over £2,300 from more than 130 supporters. The page reads: "Hayden was such a beautiful, loving soul and we would like to be able to give him a send off befitting for him. We know nothing will bring Hayden back to us but knowing we have said goodbye in the best way we can will start the difficult process of healing our broken hearts."
Heatwave and drowning risks
The incident occurred during a record-breaking heatwave, with the UK recording temperatures up to 40°C and an amber extreme heat warning covering most of England and Wales, including Leicestershire. The Mirror's 'Save Lives for Sam' campaign highlights that 33 children drown in England every year, calling it a "national emergency." Between 24 and 31 May 2026, 19 children and adults died in water-related incidents during a heatwave.
