The family of a 15-year-old boy who drowned in a Cheshire lake during May's heatwave have paid tribute to him, describing him as a 'funny and outgoing young man'. Declan died after getting into difficulty while swimming in Swanholme Lakes, Lincoln, on Sunday 24 May, the hottest day of the year so far.
His body was recovered that evening after a desperate search by emergency services. In a statement, his family said: 'Our darling boy Declan was a funny and outgoing young man who loved his fishing and his football. He had a very cheeky smile and the personality to match. He was very much loved by his friends and family, and will be missed dearly by many.'
They urged parents to make children aware of the dangers of open water, adding: 'With his tragic and unexpected passing at Swanholme Lakes, we would like to raise awareness about children playing near any rivers or lakes in the hot weather.'
Declan was one of 19 people who lost their lives in open water during the May heatwave, including 13 children. The Royal Life Saving Society warns that 90% of accidental drownings in the last five years have taken place in open water.
Experts have called for more education about the dangers of open water swimming, particularly for young people, as hot temperatures are predicted throughout the summer.
