A significant multi-agency search and rescue operation was launched on Sunday afternoon after a man was seen swimming in the River Ribble at a popular Lancashire beauty spot.
Emergency Services Converge on Riverbank
Lancashire Police were alerted at 12.58pm on Sunday, 21st December 2025, following reports for the safety of a male in the water off Ribchester Road in Dinckley. The response quickly escalated, involving search and rescue teams, multiple fire engines, and a coastguard helicopter which was deployed to scour the area.
An eyewitness present at the scene described seeing numerous specialist water search vehicles driving along Ribchester Road. "I was out fishing at the time," they said. "The helicopter appeared and it’s been hovering around for a while now."
Public Urged to Avoid Dinckley Area
Authorities have issued a clear request for the public to stay away from the location to allow emergency responders to work effectively and safely. The operation remained ongoing into the evening.
Highlighting the inherent dangers, another local witness pointed to the perilous conditions. "The temperature of the water at this time of year is very cold," they told reporters. "And the river can be dangerous due to the rocks on the riverbed."
Appeal for Information from the Public
In an official statement, a spokesperson for Lancashire Police confirmed the details: "A multi-agency rescue operation is ongoing and we would ask that the public avoid the area so emergency responders can safely carry out their work."
The police have asked anyone with information that could assist the search to contact them immediately. Witnesses should call 101 and quote log reference 590 of 21st December 2025.
